Daily Times of Nigeria Newspaper - Wednesday, 18th of February 2015

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015 VOL. 1. NO.48

Blasts, gunshots at APC rally in Rivers Ï ƌ Ɔƅ ƈ Ƈƈ ƆƏ ^ ƐƈƆ ƅƆ C Ɛ Ï ^#^ ƗƆ ƈƆ Ə ƋƆ

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Photo: saharareporters

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INSIDE CAF U-17

Poster!

Eaglets, Guinea clash in Niamey

PERSONAL TYSON’S INFORMATION ACHIEVEMENTS Name: Real name: Nicknames:

MIKE TYSON

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Rated at: Height: Reach: Nationality: Born: Place of birth: York, U.S. Stance: Boxing record Total fights: Wins: Wins by KO: Losses:

Mike Tyson Michael Gerard Tyson The Baddest Man on the Planet Kid Dynamite Iron Mike Heavyweight 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) 71 in (180 cm) American June 30, 1966 (age 48) Brooklyn, New York City, New Peek-a-Boo 58 50 44 6

Draws:

0

No contests:

2

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TYSON

X4,5

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Stars of Yesteryear

FLO-JO:

AMERICA’S SPRINT QUEEN

X7

LVG:

FELLAINI RED DEVILS’

!

JOKER

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INTERVIEW

INIESTA opens up on ambitious Barca X6

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Gov Lamido: Obasanjo is

INSIDE

our father, let’s beg him Egena Egena, ƄƑƉ

6

ÏÏÏJigawa

State Governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, on Tuesday had a word of advice for President Good-

Life&

TIMES Tuesday, February 18, 2015

Between AY and pirates L4

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luck Jonathan who may be considering a fight to

Nollywood’s oldies that rocked our world!

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Boko Haram razes emir’s palace in Borno

6

Beverly Naya in new TV series

L2

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The man with the longest wrapper L5

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Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Politics Page Three

3

s

Editorial

Curbing road carnage

T

he recent tragic autocrash that claimed the lives of 13 women in Bayelsa State has once again brought to the fore the sorry state of road infrastructure in Nigeria.

The victims, who were members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had paid a courtesy visit to the First Lady, Dame Jonathan in Okrika, Rivers State and were returning to Yenagoa when the accident occurred.

According to reports, the accident resulted from a burst tyre of the vehicle in front causing those behind to ram into it. Definitely, this incident has added to the growing statistics of largely avoidable crashes that occur on our roads everyday.

We commiserate with the bereaved families, their party and the state.

We also, however, find it expedient to call attention to the breakneck speed in which many government-owned vehicles are drivers on the highways in Nigeria.

The excessive speeding, especially when in official convoys, is a clear disregard for traffic regulations, and is known to be a major cause of road accidents.

It is imperative to note that our highways and urban roads lack functioning traffic lights, close circuit television cameras and proper road infrastructure to guide the conduct of drivers and other commuters.

In the absence of such infrastructure, the tendency is for some

of them to drive in a manner that constitutes nuisance and dangers to other road users.

While not discountenancing the possibility of other factors for the accident in Bayelsa, we know that many similar crashes in the country could have been avoided. Incidentally, many vehicles on our roads drive on imported, used, tyres. In wanting to cut corners, many drivers are given to buying and out-fitting their vehicles with old and worn out-tyres, which are prone to rapid deterioration.

We call on all agencies charged with roads safety to explore more modern ways to achieve their objectives. They should deploy technology in ensuring that vehicles plying the nation’s roads are always worthy.

Also, they must strictly enforce all rules of safe driving in order to reduce the alarming rate of accidents on the roads. We also task the National Assembly to explore the timetested method of setting up a special fund, road tax payable by vehicle owners, for the maintenance of our roads instead of ceding the entire responsibility for road construction and maintenance to the government.

Curiously, many drivers plying the country’s roads barely know the highway codes, given that they do not pass through conventional motoring institutes. In the end, the country is saddled with a sea of those who are deficient in the art of driving.

The country can least afford to be losing its citizens to avoidable road accidents.

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Resounding No to terrorists antics Sam Nzeh ÏÏÏSince

its arrival on Nigeria’s political landscape in 2009, and like other terrorist groups around the world, the Boko Haram sect has never failed to utilise every opportunity to further its goals. These goals include intimidating the populace, weakening citizens’ trust in government and ultimately carving out territories for themselves where they subject captives to their ways of life.

Using various methods like shooting, bombings, suicide

missions, kidnappings, among others, the Boko Haram has not only sent many to their untimely graves, but also maimed thousands and destroyed property worth billions of Naira.

To a large extent, the sect has caused people in the North East geo-political zone in particular to perpetually live in fear.

Just last Saturday, the terror group sent leaflets to residents of Gombe State, threatening to bomb voters at polling booths in the forthcoming general elections.

The aim of this threat, no doubt, is to intimidate and discourage eligible voters from turning up for the exercise now holding on March 28 and April 11, 2015. It is also to instill fear in the wider populace in the

Words On Marble :

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state and other parts of the country.

These terrorists’ antics must be seen for what they are: attempts to force Nigerians to live in fear, distrust of government, surrender to terrorists and adopt their warped worldview.

This we all must say a resounding No to. We must all rise and reject intimidation by terrorists. Irrespective of political and religious differences,.

We as Nigerians must begin to say No to those who want us to abandon our normal way of life. We must insist on being ourselves, live freely in any part of Nigeria. We must say No to those who want to divide us, destroy us and dehumanize us.

STATEMENTS BY THOSE WHO MATTER

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Publisher

Fidelis Anosike

Group Managing Director

Editor, Standard, Archives and Special projects

Chief Commercial Officer

Deputy Editors

Noel Anosike

Doyin Awomosu

Group Managing Editor Gabriella Osamor

Editor

Yinka Olujimi

Tunji Okegbola

Yemi Ogunsola Sam Nzeh

Bureau Chief, Northern Operations Celestine Okafor

Group News Editor

Online Editor

Editorial Page Editor

Business Editor

Sports Editor

Head ICT (Shared Services)

Segun Adio Okay Osuji

Andrew Ekejiuba

Head of Operations Innocent Nwankwo

Adetayo Adelaja Emmanuel Ogbonnaya

Banjo Ayorinde

Head Graphics King Ododoru

The opinions expressed in the articles published in this newspaper are solely those of the authors. Articles may be reproduced, provided that the original source is indicated.

Chinua Achebe

Wole Soyinka

Chukwudifu Oputa

We cannot trample upon the humanity of others without devaluing our own. The Igbo say in their proverb Onye ji onye n’ani ji onwe ya: “He who will hold another down in the mud must stay in the mud…”

The greatest threat to freedom is the absence of criticism.

If the legislature is corrupt, you go to the judiciary for redress. If the executive is corrupt you go to the judiciary for remedy. If the judiciary itself is corrupt, where do you go from there?

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Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Jonathan sends eight ministerial nominees to Senate ÏÏÏPresident

Goodluck Jonathan has sent a list of eight ministerial nominees to the Senate, which reconvened in Abuja on Tuesday after a long break.

According to a letter from the President, read on the floor of the Senate by Senate President, David Mark, the nominees included Patricia Akwashiki (Nasarawa); Augustine Akobundu (Abia State); Fidelis Nwankwo (Ebonyi); Hauwa’u Lawan (Jigawa); Musiliu Obanikoro (Lagos); Kenneth Kobani (Rivers) and

Joel Danlami Ikenya (Taraba).

Obanikoro was Minister of State for Defence before he resigned to contest the governorship primary of the party in Lagos State which he lost to Mr. Jimi Agbaje.

In a similar development, the Senate on Tuesday summoned the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Attahiru Jega to appear before the lawmakers today.

The summon, it was learnt, was to ascertain the level of INEC’s

preparedness towards the forthcoming general elections now slated for March and April.

The decision to summon Jega was taken following a motion by Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba, that there was need for Jega to brief Senators and demonstrate the use of the card readers.

The Minority Leader, Senator George Akume, also suggested that the three service chiefs, who engineered the postponement of the polls from 14 February, be equally invited.

Obanikoro

Professor Jega has been asked to appear before the Senate by 11.00am.

Okey Chris Awka

ÏÏÏAnambra

FG owes Ondo govt N11bn in road rehabilitation ‘Tosin Ajuwon Akure

ÏÏÏThe

Ondo State Government has said that it’s being owned over N11 billion by the Federal Government, as money spent on the rehabilitation and construction of federal roads in the state.

Commissioner for Works, Engr. Gboye Adegbenro, disclosed this in Akure, on Tuesday, while addressing reporters on the activities of the ministry.

Adegbenro said, however, that part of the debt was inherited from the past administrations, and had, since, accumulated.

He disclosed that the state government had written a letter to the Federal Government and was

still expecting a feedback on the possible reimbursement.

“We are expecting the Federal Government to refund the money spent on Itanla-Ondo Road and the rehabilitation of Ore junction near the Benin-Shagamu expressway by the Ondo State government, which fixed the potholes that made the road impassable three years back”, he said.

He added that the current economic meltdown in the country was affecting the rehabilitation of major roads in the state, adding that the state government was intensifying effort to make them passable. “The current economic meltdown is already affecting the execution of capital projects in the state and we, urgently, need funds for some projects, includ-

ing Ore-Okitipupa Road in the southern senatorial district, Owo-Ikare Road, and Ajowa-Kogi State boundary in the northern senatorial district, including Oke-Isua Road, which connects with the FCT”, he added.

Adegbenro, who also recalled that before the incumbent administration came on board, the Sunshine State, since 1976, had only one dualised road, which is the Oba Adesida Road, stressing that all roads being constructed in the state were not based on politics as being speculated in some quarters. He, however, said, “We are going to maximise this dry season to complete the Airport Road. Ondo township road is in phases too, we have not stopped work there”.

Osun CNPP decries political violence

Sodiq Adekunle Osogbo

ÏÏÏThe

Obiano unveils N1.6bn Okpoko road project

First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan (2nd left), condoles with the survivor of the accident that killed eleven people, including the wife of the Bayelsa State SSG, at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital on Monday.

5 News

State Governor, Willie Obiano, has flagged-off the 4.1 kilometre Ogbuagu-Mgbuka-Amazu-Onitsha-Owerri dual carriage road which cuts through the Okpoko community.

The road had been neglected by past administrations of the state.

Obiano, who used the occasion to pledge to transform the area, hinted that the road contract awarded at the cost of N1.6bn, included construction of drainage, street lights, road markings and signs and would be completed in 12 months.

He further announced that “apart from improving your environment, we have set up a special squad of the Operation Kpochapu to rid Okpoko and environs of hoodlums and miscreants. They have an initial mandate of six months for the implementation of the crime control measures in this area.”

The governor charged the landlords and the residents to report people of questionable character to the law enforcement agencies, while assuring adequate protection of those, who engaged in legitimate ventures.

Earlier, Commissioner of Works, Arc. Callistus Ilozumba, informed the people that the All Progressive Grand Alliance-led administration had given the Okpoko community a sense of belonging through the construction of strategic access roads in the area and the Ogbaru LGA up to the tune of N41bn.

Conference of the Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP), Osun State chapter, has expressed dissatisfaction with the incessant political crises in the state.

CNPP comprises All Progressive Grand Alliance, (APGA); Democratic Progressives Party (DPP); Alliance for Democracy (AD); Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN); Action Alliance (AA); People’s Party of Nigeria (PPN); KOWA and Social Democratic Party, (SDP).

The group made its position known, through its chairman, Mr. Popoola Olatunji, at a press conference in Osogbo on Monday.

He said that “the Electoral Act of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, states in section 96(1) that: No candidate, person or group of persons, shall directly or indirectly threaten any person with the use of force or violence during any political campaign, in order to compel that person or any other person to support or refrain from supporting a political party or candidate”.

“The section of the electoral act quoted makes it an offence to attack any other person in the course of electioneering campaign or any other political meeting and activity.”

Two schools shut in Osun over riot Michael Bamigbola

ÏÏÏOsun State government has

closed down the Government Technical College and Osogbo Grammar School, following a violent riot by the students.

The two schools, located close to each other in the heart of Osogbo, were recently turned into a theatre of war as the students attacked themselves with dangerous weapons.

A reliable source said that crisis brewed in the schools when a male student of the Government Technical College allegedly attempted to rape a female student of Osogbo Grammar School.

It was gathered that about 10 students were wounded in the violent clash while school property were also destroyed. It was also learnt that the offices of the principals were destroyed by the students before security agents could arrest the situation.

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Blasts, gunshots at APC rally in Rivers Dan Bassey, Port Harcourt

ÏÏÏMembers of the All Progres-

sives Congress (APC) ran for dear life on Tuesday as multiple explosions went off close to the venue of the party’s governorship rally in Okrika Local Government, Rivers State. The explosions were followed by sporadic gunshots.

The governorship candidate, Dakuku Peterside, however escaped unhurt.

The First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan hails from the local government which is also home to former militant leader, Chief Ateke Tom.

Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi fingered the First lady over the incident.

Shortly after the rally began, about five explosions rent the air very close to the Okrika National Field, venue of the rally. They were followed by sporadic gunshots which prompted the APC supporters at the rally to scamper for safety.

Witnesses said that over 12 persons suffered various degrees of injuries, including a policeman who was on duty there.

Only last month, an explosion rocked the secretariat of the Okrika APC office thereby prompting the leadership of the party to postpone its planned

rally which should have come up earlier than now.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state has denied any role in the incident.

A statement issued in Port Harcourt by Chairman, Media and Publicity Committee of the Rivers State PDP Campaign Organisation (PDPCO), Barr Emma Okah, condemned the incident and urged the police and other security agencies to investigate the incident and bring the culprits to book.

According to Okah, nobody should encourage violence in our polity, stressing that the PDP is a peace-loving party and believes that everybody should be given

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Photo: Temitope Balogun

Boko Haram raze emir’s palace, attacks military bases Ï Mƈ ƆƏ `ƆƍƑƄƋƈƅ ƏƏƆ Ɛ Ƒ ƗƏƆƗ Ƈ Ƒ ƍƆƅƐƆƗ ƌƈƋƈƐ Ɛ ÏÏÏSuspected members of

the Boko Haram were on the rampage on Tuesday at two different military locations in the North East, killing a total of 11 people.

They also attacked the palace of the emir of Askira in Askira-Uba local government area of Borno State. on Monday. The casualty figure was not clear at press time, although an earlier attack by them on Sunday night was repelled They returned on Monday.

At least three bomb explosions were detonated on Tuesday at a military checkpoint in Biu town, killing eight people, and injuring several others.

The Nigerian military fired

back on the attackers and killed 17 of them, a security source told Reuters.

Auwalu Ibrahim, a local progovernment vigilante, said there were children around the checkpoint when the blasts went off.

“Everyone has been told to go home due to apprehension about the blasts,” he said.

A nurse at the Biu general hospital said eight bodies had been brought in from the blast. Six people were receiving treatment for wounds, she added.

In a separate attack bearing the hallmarks of the militant group, a suicide bomber blew himself up in a restaurant in Potiskum, Yobe State, killing three people and

wounding 12, a hospital source said.

Meanwhile, tens of thousands of people marched through Niger’s capital Niamey on Tuesday to support their military following a series of Boko Haram attacks along the Nigeria border.

Nigerian soldiers recaptured two towns on Monday as U.S. and regional troops began war games in neighbouring Chad in a growing international campaign.

Nigerien President, Mamahadou Issoufou, boasted that his country would “be the tomb” of the terrorist sect.

President Issoufou addressing thousands of countrymen who staged a protest against the sect.

equal opportunity in all parts of the country to hold rallies and canvass for votes.

However, the Rivers State Governor, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has blamed the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, for the explosions.

Amaechi spoke to journalists in Abuja after the enlarged APC leaders meeting at the Shehu Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, Tuesday.

The governor, who condemned the act of violence, expressed disappointment over the law enforcement agents’ failure to ensure a hitch-free rally for the APC, despite having earlier okayed the rally and assured the party of security.

“Again, as usual, the wife of the president won’t allow the APC hold rally in that place (Okrika).

The wife of the president and the governorship candidate of the PDP in Rivers again organised thugs to disrupt APC rally. As usual, the police couldn’t protect us, over 200 police men. I asked the commissioner of police and he said they have over 200 policemen there. Yet, three explosions and then they opened fire on members of APC. The Channels TV reporter I hear, is injured, stabbed, and members of APC injured.

“We had meetings with DSS (Directorate of State Security) and police and they confirmed we could go ahead. There were 200 policemen and there were over 20 to 30 DSS men who came there.”

FG reduces collateral on MƾƾƠƄ LdL& fund Egema Egema, ƄƑƉ

ÏÏÏThe

Federal Government has slashed the collateral on the N220 billion Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Fund (MSMEF).

The reduction was part of measures to ease access to the fund.

This decision was taken, yesterday, by the National Council on Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) headed by Vice President Namadi Sambo, which met in the State House.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, who briefed State House correspondents after the meeting, said the council deliberated on how to create awareness about the fund and lower the conditions for accessing it.

The fund, domiciled in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), was launched by President Goodluck Jonathan last year.

Aganga recalled that in its inaugural meeting, the council had set up a committee to look at the funds and the conditions that were required to access it, noting the committee, chaired by the Minister of National Planning, submitted its report to the counContinued on page 8

APC fails in bid to change House leadership Henry Omunu & Augustine Aminu, ƄƑƉ

ÏÏÏAttempts by the All Progres-

sives Congress (APC) lawmakers in the House of Representatives to effect a change in the leadership of the House, yesterday, met a brick wall, after Speaker Aminu Tambuwal disclosed that cases regarding the issue of the House leadership were pending in law courts.

Hon. Suleiman Kawu (APC/ Kano) had, upon the announcement that six more House members had defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), raised Orders 6, Rule 19 and Oder 7 Rule 27 respectively, drawing the Speaker’s attention to the fact that

the APC was now in the majority.

He, therefore, requested that the leadership of the House should change to reflect the current reality, adding that the rules of the House require that only the party with the majority of members can produce leaders of the House.

The order, if passed, would have meant that the Deputy Speaker of the House, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, House Majority Leader, Hon. Mulikat Akande, her deputy, Hon. Leo Ogor, Chief Whip, Hon. Ishaku Bawa and Hon. Ahmed Muktar Mohammed, the deputy whip would have vacated their seats.

However, Speaker Tambuwal scuttled the move for the APC to Continued on page 8

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

7 News

Buhari urges party faithful to remain steadfast, vigilant ÏÏÏGeneral Muhammadu Bu-

hari, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called on leaders and elders of the party to keep their eyes on the ball and work as they had never done before, despite the six-week postponement of the elections.

He made the call during an address to party leaders and elders at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja,

on Tuesday.

“The days and weeks ahead will be tough, Our resolve will be tested and all kinds of evil tricks will be on display. But do not despair. The goal is in sight. Change is coming. The people of Nigeria will prevail. God has destined Nigeria to be a great country. We shall overcome and change shall be achieved”, Buhari said.

He described as “worrisome”, the recent revelations by Capt.

Sagir Koli on how he, a serving officer, at that time, was deployed, with other serving officers, some more senior in rank, to work with key politicians of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) , to rig the Ekiti election.

“Up till now, there has been no official denial of this most unfortunate event. It makes me wonder, in the circumstances that led to shifting of the date of the general election, whether

the security services are even now being prepared to play similar roles in the March 28th and April 11th election”, Buhari said, General Buhari emphasised that Nigeria’s security services had serious constitutional responsibilities to the people of the nation, and so their importance to the well-being of the country could not be under estimated.

“It is, therefore, imperative that their leaders must not drag these invaluable institutions into the realm of partisan politics,” he said.

The APC presidential candidate also commended some of the party leaders in attendance, who lost in the various party primaries and have thrown their energies and resources into the campaign, not minding their personal losses.

Ahmed vows not to sack workers in Kwara Ola Yekeen Ilorin

ÏÏÏKwara

Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (middle), delivering a speech at the Catholic Secretariat Forum in Abuja on Tuesday.

With her are: Secretary-General, Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Ralph Madu (left) and Executive Secretary, Cartitas Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Evaristius Bassey.

State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, has vowed not to retrench workers even in the face of dwindling financial fortunes.

He gave the assurance on Tuesday, in Ilorin, during an interactive session with the people under the auspices of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC).

The governor agreed that al-

Tom Garba

PDP seeks probe of APC anti-election leaflets in Gombe Lateef Ibrahim Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for a thorough investigation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) over its stand on the recent circulation of anti-election leaflets in Gombe State.

This, the PDP reasoned, would go a long way to assist in unravelling other knotty issues regarding the security challenges in the country.

The National Publicity Secretary of PDP, Chief Olisa Metuh, made the call in a statement yesterday in Abuja.

The party posited that the rush with which the APC started raining accusations on PDP over the matter was “suspect and betrays a subterfuge”.

The PDP described the APC ac-

cusation as a spirited attempt to cover-up, divert attention and distract the security forces from getting to those behind the threats.

According to Metuh: “Many Nigerians saw the statement by the APC as merely political, but looking beyond the veneer of politics, it is a bigger picture of an opposition party deeply involved, but craftily deploying a smoke screen to divert attention through a hurried attempt to politicise a very serious security issue”.

The party, which pointed out that it was incontrovertible that Gombe remained a stronghold of the PDP, with the soaring popularity of President Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo, urged Nigerians to make their deduction as to which party stands to gain from any anti-election threat in the state.

Yola

ÏÏÏThe

Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Adamawa State, Rev Phineas Padio, has lamented how hoodlums visited a member of the party and seized her Permanent Voter Card (PVC) and those of her seven children.

According to Padio, the illegal act was carried out by political enemies, who had discovered that they were losing grips in all parts of the state and had chosen to robbing voters of their PVCs. “We now have a new form of

Amaechi condoles with families of dead Bayelsa women Metuh

He said: “Furthermore, the manner with which the APC, in its statement, described the convoy of the insurgents and their movements from Maiduguri to Gombe, raises an issue.

Faith Faithful Port Harcourt

ÏÏÏWife of

Rivers State Governor, Dame Judith Amaechi, has expressed shock over the death of 11 Bayelsa women, who were killed recently in a motor accident, at

location from the Federation Account to the state had fallen drastically due to the fall in the price of crude oil in international market.

Ahmed declared that his government would continue to strive to meet workers’ demands at all times as their welfare was paramount to the government.

He said that workers in the state have continued to receive their salaries on time, while his government had implemented the N18,000 minimum wage.

Adamawa APC sounds the alarm over PVCs armed robbery in Adamawa State. Our political enemies are visiting the houses of our loyal members, forcing them to bring their PVCs under gun point. This act is, indeed, condemnable and everybody should wake up to defend his/her right”, Padio said.

He advised APC members to be careful with their PVCs which is a big treasure to them and should not be kept anyhow for thieves to come and steal.

Ahoada, on the East- West road.

Mrs. Amaechi, in a statement, signed by her Media Assistant, Dike Bekwele, said such deaths were regrettable.

Mrs Amaechi, who described the deaths as a national tragedy, said the nation had a role to mourn the women, who died at this time of our national life. She said: “My heart bleeds that our mothers and sisters who are devoted wives and companions could be cut in their prime.

This is indeed a national tragedy.”

News 8

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

‘Let’s beg Obasanjo, he’s our father’ Continued from page 1 the finish with former President Olusegun Obasanjo: “Don’t!”

The governor, who visited the President, asserted that former President Olusegun Obasanjo, regardless of perceived shortcomings, was still father to the current generation of politicians in the country because he made all of them.

Accordingly, he said they needed to apologise to the former president as his children, if they fell short of his expectations.

The governor spoke at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, while fielding questions from State House correspondents after a meeting with President Jonathan.

Lamido”s position was a radical departure from the barage

of criticisms that had trailed Obasanjo’s dumping of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the shredding of his membership card publicly.

He said: “Baba is more than a party man. He is an icon, a national symbol and a leader and an inventor, a creator of all the institutions today in Nigeria.

From the Presidency to the governors who are his own sons, are all his creations. And so, when a father is angry with his own children, we will only say we are sorry to him. But then, we cannot be renounced for whatever it is.

“If you do any political DNA of our blood, you will find his blood in us. No matter what we are, we may not be able to live up to his expectations. We might have made some mistakes, but abandoning us is not the solu-

tion because the country is first before anything else.

“So, he is our baba even up to the President. Baba is our baba no matter what. He is angry with us, but then, what do we do? He gave us the life at a time when Nigerians were fighting us, he stood for us. Since 2011, in 2007, he stood firm for us. He is our father. And so, if we made some mistakes, we are only human because we are heading human institutions.

“And I think by the time he reflects, how could he abandon his own children like that. Wherever we are, we are right in his heart.

He feels for us, he cares for us.”

On whether PDP leaders would go back to Obasanjo to persuade him for reconciliation, Lamido said such things are not done or announced in the media.

Yobe, Adamawa, Borno lead Lagos, Oyo, Imo, others in PVC collection Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

three North East states ravaged by Boko Haram insurgency, Yobe, Adamawa and Borno, on Tuesday, dusted states like Lagos, Oyo, Imo among others in the number of registered voters who collected their Permanent Voters Cards (PVC).

The PVC is a prerequisite for voting in the March 28 and April 11, 2015 general election.

This is even as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Tuesday disclosed that it has achieved over 75 per cent national average in the distribution of the PVCs, out of the 68.8 million registered voters in the country.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman, Kayode Idowu, in Abuja, noting that out of the 68,833,476 registered voters, 52,233,396 or 75.88 per cent of eligible

voters have so far collected their PVC’s nationwide.

The statement showed that out of 1,559,012 registered voters in Adamawa State, a total of 1,328,136 registered voters have collected their PVCs (85 percent). In Yobe State, out of 1,099,970 registered voters, 824,401 persons collected their PVCs (74.95 percent) while in Borno State, out of the 1,934,079 registered voters, 1,320,667 have so far collected their PVCs (68.28 percent).

This is in contrast to the number of registered voters who have so far collected their PVCs in states like Lagos, Oyo, Imo among others.

In Lagos State, out of 5,905, 852 registered voters, 3,685,322 have so far collected their PVCs (62.40 percent. Oyo State with 2,415,566 registered voters, 1,569,390 persons have collected their PVCs (64.97 percent) while in Imo State with 1,803,030 registered voters, 1,252,030 persons have collected their PVCs.

APC fails in bid to change House leadership Continued from page 6

Governor Of Plateau State, Jonah Jang (Right) Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Gubernatorial Candidate for Plateau State, Sen. Gyang Pwajok (left) at a Gubernatorial Campaign in Jos North Local Government Council Area of Plateau… on Tuesday

FG cuts collateral on N220bn MSMEs fund Continued from page 6 cil, yesterday.

He said following the reaction of the CBN to the committee’s report, the council took a number of decisions affecting the criteria for accessing the funds.

According to Aganga, “The first is that access to collateral requirements which was initially 75 percent which made it difficult for some commercial banks to be able to access has been reduced to 50 per cent.

“All inclusive interest rate must not exceed nine percent. That has always been the operative of the

CBN and we have stuck to that.

However, the CBN is disbursing to these banks and the Financial Institutions and others at two percent from the original inter rate rate of three percent, Aganga said.

The minister noted that the council also deliberated on ways to make the fund sustainable across board for micro finance institutions.

According to him, “this was important because the mirco businesses at the grassroot constituted 99 percent of the total MSMEs sector and “those are the ones that require the support of the federal government.”

He continued: “We also agreed that all government programmes should be better coordinated. As a result, we are looking at all the funds available and we will be making information available to all Nigerians on the funds that are available and the guidelines on how each one of them can be accessed by the average Nigerian.”

On the need for women to have access to the fund, he announced that the president had already announced that about 60 percent of that fund be made available to women while men and women with disabilities have also been prioritised.

take over from the PDP House members, when he reminded the lawmakers that cases relating to the leadership of the House were yet to be disposed of by the courts.

Subsequently, he ordered that the issue be kept in abeyance pending when the court cases would be finally determined by the courts.

Presently, the APC has the majority in the House with 181 members, followed by the PDP with 156

ÏÏÏThe senate has summoned

the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Attahiru Jega, to appear before it tomorrow.

Jega’s invitation was coming on the heels of the level of his agency’s preparedness towards the forthcoming general elections.

The Senate decision was taken following a motion by the Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba, who noted that there was the need for the INEC boss to brief the senators and demonstrate the use of the card readers.

Minority Leader, Senator George Akume, also suggested that the three service chiefs who engineered the postponement of the polls from February 14, be

members. The SDP has 10 members; Labour Party, five members; APGA, four members with PDM and Accord Party having two members each respectively.

At plenary, yesterday, Speaker Tambuwal had announced the defection of six lawmakers from the PDP to other parties.

The lawmakers who defected are Hon. Micah Umoh from the PDP to Accord Party; Hon. Peter Ali to Labour Party; Hon. Chinneye Ike to APGA; Hon.

Senate summons Jega over polls equally invited.

However, while Senate President David Mark, was ruling on the motion and the voice vote approval of the senators, said the invitation of service chiefs would be determined by Jega’s submission on Wednesday.

Mark therefore directed the INEC boss to appear before the senate in plenary Wednesday by 11.00am.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

9 News

We’ll not tolerate another election shift, Tinubu warns

A’Ibom lawmaker vows to complete ongoing projects

Augustine Aminu

Emma Obi

ÏÏÏThe

chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT) of the All Progressive Congress (APC), and former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has warned that his party and Nigerians would not tolerate another shift in election date under any guise by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led government.

Tinubu expressed surprise that the government has been busy giving excuses rather accept its inability to tackle the security and economic challenges confronting Nigeria.

Tinubu, at a joint leadership meeting of the party on Tuesday in Abuja, noted that the APC campaign rally in Borno State on Monday, clearly disputed the ruling party’s claim that election could not hold in the North Eastern states.

He said that the APC presiden-

tial candidate has become more democratic and obedient to the cause of Nigeria than ever, urging Nigerians across every divide to vote for the APC. Tinubu, who thanked party members and Nigerians for the massive support the party enjoyed during its campaign rally declared that, “it is a work well done and we are getting closer to bringing down the Berlin wall.

“Nobody will serve you power, the determination is yours and don’t underestimate those people.

As you go home, be democratic and symbolic government in your respective states”, he urged governors and party leaders.

He decried the rate at which the naira is being devalued adding that the economy is at the brink of collapse.

“While the PDP is trying to play religion, insecurity and poverty, the APC will play economy, security and prosperity for all Ni-

gerians”, Tinubu said.

Also at the meeting, Gen Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), the presidential candidate of the APC, called on leaders and elders of the party to keep their eyes on the ball and work as they have never done before, despite the six-week postponement of the elections.

“The days and weeks ahead will be tough, our resolve will be tested and all kinds of evil tricks will be on display. But do not despair. The goal is in sight. Change is coming. The people of Nigeria will prevail. God has destined Nigeria to be a great country. We shall overcome and change shall be achieved” Buhari said.

The presidential candidate described as “worrisome”, the recent allegation by one Capt. Sagir Koli, about how he, a serving officer at that time, was allegedly deployed, with other serving officers, some more senior in rank, to work with key politicians of the

Calabar

ÏÏÏMember,

Tinubu

PDP to rig the Ekiti elections.

“Up till now, there has been no official denial of this most unfortunate event. It makes me wonder, in the circumstances that led to shifting of the date of the general election, whether the security services are even now being prepared to play similar roles in the March 28th and April 11th elections” Buhari said.

representing Boki II, State Constituency in the Cross River House of Assembly, Dr Jacob Otu-Enyia, has assured Cross River indigenes that the ongoing projects in the state would be completed and commissioned before the lifespan of this administration.

Otu-Enyia gave the assurance on Tuesday in Calabar during an interview with Daily Times.

The lawmaker who is the Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, said that with the 2015 appropriation budget of N149.44 billion, all projects in the state would be completed and commissioned before the exit of the Imoke led administration.

I’ll consolidate on gains of my 1st term - Ogunola ÏÏÏThe Social Democratic Party

(SDP) candidate for the Ado-Odo/ Ota Federal Constituency in the March 28, 2015 election, Hon. Babatunde Ogunola (a.k.a Tomo), has assured that he would consolidate on the gains of the quality representation he had given the people if re-elected into the House of Representatives.

Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole (middle) with others during the flag-off of the 24-km OgirigaAfokpella-OkugbeImiekuri-Ohu road project in Edo State… on Tuesday

KOWA party tasks Nigerians on presidential choice

Varsity graduate, six others arrested for car-snatching ÏÏÏPolice in Lagos State have ar-

rested a graduate of the University of Lagos and his suspected gang over car-snatching in the south western region of the country.

Parading the suspects before journalists on Tuesday at the state police command headquarters, Ikeja, Lagos, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Kayode Aderanti, said: “ On 17th of January, a staffer of Channels Television reported the snatching of her Sports Utility Vehicles at gun

point, around OPIC, along Lagos Ibadan Expressway, Ogun State.

“Immediately the incident was reported, I ordered the officer in charge of the state Special AntiRobbery Squad [SARS], Abba kyari, to launch a massive manhunt of the robbers. Three of the armed robbery suspects were arrested in Ojodu and Ikorodu areas of Lagos.

“The suspects were identified as Maven Bali, 40; Cheikube Emeka, 32; Ejike Chukwuemeka, 37; Nura Mohammed, 33; Jacob Ali,

28; Titus Johana, 31 and Richard Augustine 30.”

Chukwuemeka, in his confession said, “I studied Accounting at the University of Lagos in 2006, after graduation, I worked briefly at the Apapa Tincan as a clearing agent. When the business was not going well, I travelled to South Africa for the pursuit of greener pasture.

“Before I travelled to South Africa, I had known Emeka, at Apapa, where I worked before I travelled, when the country were

I travelled to was no more conducive for me, I decided to come back home”.

The suspected receiver of the stolen vehicles, Nura Muhammed, said, “A friend of mine, who is late now introduced me to the leader of the gang.

“I reside in Kano, whenever there is car, the leader of the gang would call me on phone, and the car would be driven down to me at the Niger border post, where there are always buyers from Niger”.

Michael Bamigbola Osogbo

ÏÏÏThe

Presidential candidate of Kowa Party, Professor Remi Sonaiya, has urged Nigerians not to vote for candidates who go about influencing people with money but should base their choice in the March/April general election on candidates who have genuine desire to serve the country.

She noted that the Nigerian political space is occupied by moneybags and candidates being backed by them, saying that Nigerians have another opportunity to vote credible leaders in order to break away from the inglorious past.

News 10

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday February 18, 2015

Ogun PDP gov candidate promises purposeful leadership ÏÏÏThe Ogun State gover-

Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan (2nd left); Member, Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Eri Jeo (middle); Chairman, Isoko South LGA, Mr. Sunny Areh (left) and others during the commissioning of Umeh Road Bridge and Umeh Secondary School, Umeh in Isoko South LGA… on Tuesday

Innoson boss, others reject ‘crazy’ electricity bill Doris Nnabuenyi, Awka

ÏÏÏThe

Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has threatened to shut down all the companies in the South Eastern part of Nigeria or relocate to other areas, if the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) fails to reverse the high tariff in the area with immediate effect.

The association, in a communiqué issued in Nnewi, Anambra State on Tuesday, noted that, although, the ac-

tion would throw over one million workers in the 600 companies into the labour market, it would not deter it from shutting down all companies in the zone.

In attendance were Chief Innocent Chukwuma, (Innoson Group Chairman), Chief Paul Okonkwo (PokoBros/ Whiz Oil Chairman), Chief Azubuike Okafor (Zubee Group of Companies), and other business moguls in the zone.

MAN further noted that its members pay between N7 million and N16 mil-

lion monthly on diesel, yet EEDC collects a high tariff.

It said: “The federal government should cushion the effect of electricity supply, like it did in the oil sector to sustain manufacturing, so as to create a level playing ground for all. It is impossible for any business to thrive under this harsh condition of 95 percent increment from 23.97 as old charge to 46.66 percent as new tariff in Enugu zone.

“The payment of fixed charge is akin to payment for inefficiency, because all

our members run on generator more than electricity.

The fixed charge, although, it is alleged, is to encourage investors, it is like putting the cart before the horse”, the communique read.

“The rate should be the same across the federation, as it is applicable in other major industrial areas of the federation such as Eko (Lagos) among others. No member company should be disconnected until the matter is resolved, and we should be allowed to pay the old rate”, MAN said.

Adamawa APC supporters protest arrest of Nyako’s son Tom Garba, Yola

ÏÏÏThe

supporters of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State have demanded the immediate release of Abdulaziz, son of former Governor, Murtala Nyako, who has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Abdulaziz was, on Friday, arrested by the EFCC at the Gombe airport on his way to Abuja.

The supporters, mostly youths, staged a protest through the major roads in the state capital, carry-

ing placards with various inscriptions like “Release our Mandela”, “Abdulaziz’s arrest is politically-motivated” and “We say No to politically-motivated arrests”.

The protesters said that the only reason for Nyako’s arrest was his political inclination and his bright chances as the APC’s Senatorial candidate for the Adamawa Central Senatorial Zone in the coming general election.

The spokesman for the protesters, Zayyanu Sahabi, noted that they were out to reject what he called the unjust arrest and continued detention of Nyako’s son, without any justification,

but for his rising political profile and his bright chances in the coming general election.”

“We shall continue to protest any such unilateral clampdown on opposition candidates, because they stand a good chance against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He said further: “We want change, as people are tired of the impunity wrought upon us by the PDP, under whose leadership, our lives have been seriously shortchanged, while many of our brothers have been killed or rendered homeless.”

A female protester, Mama

norship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, has promised to use his knowledge and experience to develop the state, if elected in the April 11 election.

Isiaka, who spoke during an inter-religious service, organised by the Christian and Muslim community in Imeko, Ogun State to mark his 53rd birthday on Tuesday, said the state was in dire need of a selfless leader who would manage its resources with the fear of God and lay a firmer foundation for the future generation.

Dignitaries at the prayer session included his running mate, Mr. Tunde Makanjuola; former chairman of the PDP, Chief Joju Fadairo; Olotu Dipo Sofowora, Ogun West PDP senatorial candi-

Principal suspends 100 students Daniel Jolly, Bauchi

ÏÏÏOver 100 students of Gov-

ernment College, Toro, Bauchi State have been suspended for violating the school’s rules and regulations.

The principal of the special school, Malam Magajin Idris Bello disclosed this on Tuesday while briefing newsmen in the school.

Bello said the students were suspended because they left the school without permission because of the elections, despite the fact that the Federal Government had said that schools would not be closed

N300m fake, expired drugs destroyed in Kano Yakubu Salisu Nyako Naomi, said: “it is unfortunate that the have PDP resorted to the use of government agencies to witch-hunt its real and perceived political enemies.”

date, Hon Waliu Taiwo, Yewa North/Imeko Afon House of Representatives candidate, Evangelist Titus Eweje and Chief Saka Isiaka.

Isiaka, who was full of gratitude to God for sparing his life to celebrate another birthday said, “Yes, I grew up in Imeko. I spent the first 16 years of my life in this community and I know what is called poverty and deprivation, but, I thank God that despite the vicissitudes of life, I can stand tall to represent hope of a better tomorrow which the state needs now.”

He added: “Our state is in need of a visionary leader, a prudent manager of human and material resources. We need a leader that will set our priority right as a state and deliver dividends of democracy to the nooks and crannies of the state.

ÏÏÏKano State Governor,

Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has set ablaze fake and expired drugs worth N300 million intercepted at various parts of the state.

Speaking during the event on Tuesday, the gov-

down before and during elections.

He added that the school authorities had to suspend the erring students as a deterrent to others and advised others to be guided by the school’s rules and regulations.

He also cautioned parents and guardians to desist from sending money to their children in the school as the government had provided everything they might need to make them feel at home.

Some of the affected students said they regretted their action and expressed the willingness to abide by the school’s rules in future.

ernor stated that the drugs were intercepted by the task force set up to checkmate the activities of some persons who had turned the state into a haven for the suppliers of fake and expired drugs, with the attendant danger to the health of the people.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to cleansing Kano of bad drugs as well as other consumables that pose danger to public health.

He further stated that his administration had, so far, destroyed fake drugs worth over N4 billion.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

PDP chieftains attacked at campaign rally Rabiu Doma Lafia

ÏÏÏThe Nasarawa State gover-

norship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was on Monday attacked by suspected supporters of the past governor of the state, Aliyu Akwe Doma.

Also assaulted were the state chairman of the party and the secretary.

The suspected party thugs had demanded that the state secretary of the party, who is an indigene of Doma Local Government, be barred from addressing the multitude present at the campaign rally held at the playground of Islamiya Primary School.

The violent-looking mob, in party T- shirts, hurled stones, sharp objects and satchet water at the party heavyweights on the platform insisting that the state secretary should not address the crowd.

The chairman of the party, the secretary including the gubernatorial candidate narrowly escaped unhurt, thanks to the intervention of security agents who shot into the air to send everyone fleeing.

Orji explains work on Ohiya Motor Park Ifeanyi Onwuneme

ÏÏÏAbia

State Governor, Chief Theodore Orji, has said that his administration constructed the Ohiya Bus Terminal to ensure discipline and orderliness in the motor business and commendedmotor unions for complying with government directive to move into the new park.

Speaking while receiving a delegation of Drivers Welfare Association, Umuahia at the Government House, the governor said the measure was also meant for the comfort of the drivers.

He stated that he was interested in the welfare of the drivers which prompted him to empower many of them with vehicles and called on them to ensure that they secure their permanent voters cards that would enable them to vote for the Peoples Democratic party (PDP) in the coming elections.

The Governor advised the management of Okigwe motor park to accommodate the Abia Transport Corporation until the government gets an alternative space for them to do their business as well as to maintain the peace at all times.

11 News

Nigeria safe under Jonathan - PDP guber hopeful Sunday Nwakanma - Umuahia

ÏÏÏThe Peoples Democratic Par-

ty (PDP) candidate in Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has explained to Isingwu people in Umuahia North Local Government Area why President Goodluck Jonathan must be voted in for another term.

He told party members on Sunday that the unity of the country would be retained and security assured under Jonathan, not under the All Progressives Congress

(APC) candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd).

Dr. Ikpeazu explained that what should be paramount in making a choice of president, come presidential election in March, is the unity and safety of the country.

He pleaded: “Let us keep Nigeria under Jonathan’s watch.”

He promised that when he becomes the governor of the state, his administration would create about 5,000 jobs within its first one year in office.

Ikpeazu, who described Ohuh-

uland, of which Isingwu is part, as a cradle of politics in the south-east, as shown by the laudable activities of the late premier of defunct Eastern Nigeria, Mazi Micheal Okpara.

He said his government would be an inclusive one, which would pay a generous attention to the political, economic and educational needs of the youths.

A member of the State House of Assembly, representing Ohuhu (Umuahia North state constituency), Hon. Emeka Ejiogu, said the people of Isingwu needed more

benefits of democracy.

He pledged that the roads in the community would be put in good shape in the next dispensation, while health institutionsin the area would be adequately equipped.

Also speaking, the representatives of the community, Chief Anozie Nwokoma, Mrs. Ahuruchi Ibegbulem and Hon. Ugochukwu Ezeocha, pleaded with Ikpeazu to reconstruct the access roads to the community, as well as equip the health centres in the area and create jobs for the youths.

Monarch seeks relocation of Mobil H\Q to A’Ibom Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji (left) with Methodist Bishop of Item, Rt. Rev. Udo Mmeregini after a morning devotion at the Unity Chapel, Government House Umuahia…on Monday

Polls shift good, but May 29 sacrosanct – Amb. Hirse Chijioke Kingsley Jos

ÏÏÏThe federal government has

been taken to task by the Labour Party gubernatorial candidate in Plateau State, Ambassador Bagudu Hirse, over the postponement of the general election.

Speaking in Jos yesterday with news men, Amb. Hirse said the reasons advanced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the postponement, namely security concerns and the issuance of the Perma-

nent Voter Cards (PVCs) to the generality of Nigerians were cogent and convincing enough as no part of the country or any eligible voter should be left out of the forthcoming election.

The political awareness of Nigerians, he said, had attained an unprecedented level that the 2015 general elections means so much to them.

According to him, the postponement is synonymous to a woman in labour pains and her date of delivery delayed to those who started the race to seeking elective offices much earlier, but for

those who started late, it could be a blessing in disguise. Be that as it may, like Winston Churchill once said, “24 hours can make a difference in politics” He however, cautioned that INEC should stick to the new date religiously and failure to do so, will not be taken kindly by the international community.

Hirse, a former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, used the forum to urge Nigerians to remain calm and allow INEC do whatever possible, to ensure free, fair and acceptable elections at the end of the day.

Eno-Obong Okon Uyo

ÏÏÏA paramount ruler in Ibeno

Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Owong Effiong Achianga, has called on ExxonMobil to move its administrative headquarters to the state, where it has explored oil for the past 40 years.

Achianga, who made this call at Ibeno, on Tuesday, said the company’s operational area was in Ibeno and it would only be fair that the headquarters also be moved to the state to further develop the area of the company’s operation.

He argued that such strategic action was necessary to calm the frayed nerves of local residents and further strengthen its relationship with the host communities.

The royal father, who also made a case for the relocation of the jetty from the neighbouring Port Harcourt, Rivers State, noted that with those facilities in the state, ownership by association would be assured as employment, revenue generation and associated business would be facilitated.

Uphold your responsibilities, AIG tells Police officers Dutse Mohammed

ÏÏÏOfficers and men of the Ni-

gerian Police Force, have been charged to act responsibly in the course of their duty.

The Assistant Inspector Gen-

eral Zone One, Tambari Yabo Mohammed, made the call while on a working visit to the Jigawa State Police Command.

“As law enforcement agents, you must not mortgage your conscience for cheap popular-

ity either politically or otherwise,” he said.

He told the command’s officers to clear all impending criminal cases unattended to and act promptly to ensure speedy dispensation of justice.

According to the AIG: “As we are approaching challenges of political period, we are expected to face the challenges with all defensive machinery within our disposal in the discharge of our social responsibilities.”

Africa 12

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Anger as Mugabe set to serve elephant meat at birthday party ÏÏÏWild animals are reportedly

set to be slaughtered and served at President Robert Mugabe’s 91st birthday party, a development that has enraged conservationists.

A report by the Chronicle said a prominent farmer, Tendai Musasa had pledged to donate two elephants, two buffalos, two sables, five impalas and a lion worth a combined $120 000 towards the president’s birthday bash that will be held on 28 February.

According to The Guardian the conservationists have branded the plans as unethical.

Musasa said this was his way of supporting the function and to ensure a celebratory mood.

He said the donation was “a perfect gesture”, adding that the animals would be slaughtered a few days ahead of the big day with the meat being stored by a local hotel.

But the chairperson of Zim-

babwe Conservation Task Force Johnny Rodrigues said he was not in favour of anyone donating wild animals for a celebration or any other reason.

“They have been doing this for years now. Every time there is a celebration..., several elephants and buffalo are killed for the celebrations. This is totally unethical and should not be allowed,” Rodrigues was quoted as saying.

Mugabe’s government is already under fire for a plan to ship at least 62 baby elephants to China, the United Arab Emirates and France.

The country’s tourism minister last month said the southern African country was overpopulated with African jumbos, adding that Zimbabwe needed to urgently reduce the animals’ population.

According to Huffington Post, at least 20 000 people are expected to attend the lavish celebrations just outside Victoria Falls.

Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe

Malawi bans child marriage, lifts minimum age to 18

ÏÏÏMalawi has passed a law ban-

ning child marriage, raising the minimum age to 18 in a country where half of girls end up as child brides.

Women rights campaigners hailed the move as “a great day for Malawian girls” and said the law would help boost development in one of the world’s poorest countries.

But they warned Malawi would not end child marriage without concerted efforts to tackle poverty and end harmful traditional practices like early sexual initiations.

“This law is extremely crucial because child marriage is a big, big problem in our country,” said parliamentarian Jessie Kabwila

who helped push for the new legislation.

“The country will for the first time clearly articulate that we are saying ‘No’ to child marriage.”

Malawi has one of the world’s highest rates of child marriage.

Half of girls wed before their 18th birthday and nearly one in eight is married by 15.

Early marriage not only deprives girls of education and opportunities, but also increases the risk of death or serious childbirth injuries if they have babies before their bodies are ready.

Child brides are also at greater risk of domestic and sexual violence.

“This law is very important because of the number of girls

who drop out of school because they are going to get married, and because of the high numbers of girls who are dying when they are giving birth,” Kabwila told Thomson Reuters Foundation in a phone interview.

“We cannot talk about development if we have child marriage.

Women’s empowerment is a crucial player in development and women cannot be empowered if they are not educated.”

She said parliament had voted unanimously last Thursday for the Marriage, Divorce and Family Relations Bill which the president is due to sign into law within three weeks.

Child marriage is deeply entrenched in Malawi’s society

partly because of a belief that a girl should marry as early as possible to maximize her fertility.

Girls are currently allowed to marry at 16, or 15 with parental consent. But many marry much younger.

Lupi

Italian coastguard has rescued more than 2,000 migrants in a major operation off the Libyan coast, officials say.

During the rescue, search teams were threatened by Kalashnikov-wielding men who approached in a speedboat from Libya, Italian officials said.

Last week, at least 300 migrants perished in the Mediterranean Sea. They were travelling in din-

ghies that ran into trouble during stormy weather after leaving the coast of Libya.

On Friday another 600 migrants were rescued about 50 miles (80km) off the coast of the North African country.

The latest rescue effort on Sunday involved a plane, four coastguard ships, two tugboats and a navy vessel, according to the AFP news agency.

Local media reported that the

ÏÏÏEgyptian

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called for a United Nations resolution mandating an international coalition to intervene in Libya after its jets bombed Islamic State targets there.

“There is no other choice, taking into account the agreement of the Libyan people and government and that they call on us to act,” he told France’s Europe 1 radio in an interview aired on Tuesday.

Asked if it would recommence its own action: “We need to do it again, and all of us together.”

Islamic State released a video on Sunday showing the beheading of 21 Egyptian Christians, drawing Cairo directly into the conflict across its border and raising concerns the Islamist insurgents, already active in Syria and Iraq, were spreading their influence further.

Referring to the 2011 Libyan war in which France was part of an international coalition backing forces that deposed former leader Muammar Gaddafi, Sisi called it an “unfinished mission”.

Morocco suspends flights to Libya for security reasons ÏÏÏMorocco

Mutharika

2,000 migrants rescued off Mediterranean Sea ÏÏÏThe

Egypt leader urges UN mandate for Libya coalition

migrants had been aboard 12 boats and had been taken to Italy.

According to Italy’s transport ministry, four men with Kalashnikov rifles sped out from the Libyan shore during the rescue and ordered the coastguard to return a boat that had been emptied of migrants.

Some of the gunmen then jumped onto the boat and took off with it, added Transport Minister Maurizio Lupi.

has announced that flights between Morocco and Libya have been suspended because security at Libyan airports is not up to international standards.

The joint statement from the interior and transportation ministry on Monday night said the suspension included flights by Libyan airplanes over Moroccan territory.

Moroccan citizens residing in Libya hoping to return home would have to pass through neighbouring countries, added the statement.

The move comes after the grisly killing of 21 Christian Egyptians by a radical Libyan group claiming allegiance to the Islamic State group.

Libya’s neighbour Tunisia also announced Monday it was reinforcing its borders after the killing.

North African countries have been alarmed by the rise of radical groups in Libya claiming allegiance to the Islamic State group based in Syria.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

13 World Bomb blast kills three in Pakistani city ÏÏÏ

Indian Prime Minister, Modi, fears more religious attacks

Indian PM warns against religious attacks ÏÏÏIndia’s Prime Minister Nar-

endra Modi has vowed to protect all religious groups after a string of attacks on churches in Delhi.

Addressing a Christian audience in the capital, he called on all religious groups to show restraint and respect.

Since December, five churches have been attacked, but this is the first time Mr Modi has commented on the issue.

Critics say his Hindu nationalist BJP government is not doing enough to stop Hindu zealots tar-

geting minorities.

Mr Modi has also been blamed for not doing enough to stop the 2002 anti-Muslim riots in Gujarat when he was the state’s chief minister.

More than 1,000 people, mostly Muslims, were killed in the violence, which were sparked by a fire on a train at Godhra in Gujarat that killed 59 Hindu pilgrims.

Mr Modi has denied any wrongdoing and Indian courts have cleared him of all charges.

“I condemn violence against

any religion. We will act strongly against such violence,” Mr Modi said at a conference organised

by Christian groups in Delhi on Tuesday.

“My government will not allow any group belonging to majority or minority to incite hatred against other communities.”

A burnt crucifix stands at the altar of St. Sebastian”s Church after a fire destroyed the church on Monday, in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2014. There have been five attacks on churches

Syrian army to cut Aleppo rebel supply line ÏÏÏSyrian

government forces have gained ground in a new push north of the divided city of Aleppo, seeking to cut a vital rebel supply line, a monitoring group said on Tuesday.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said regime forces had taken the villages of Bashkawi and Sefat and were battling to block the key highway leading from rebel-held east Aleppo to the Turkish border.

The fighting stopped traffic on the road, which passes through the town of Tal Rifat and up to the border.

The Britain-based monitor said fierce clashes were also raging between rebel forces and govern-

ment troops in the nearby villages of Ratyan and Hardtaneen.

It said regime fighters were shelling the town of Hayan, which lies on the road to two government-held Shiite villages that rebels have besieged for more than 18 months.

“The regime troops have two goals in the area: to cut the road leading from Aleppo to the Turkish border, which is the key supply road for the rebels and to open the way to [besieged] Nubol and Zahraa,” Observatory director Rami Abdel Rahman said.

Once Syria’s industrial powerhouse, Aleppo city has been divided between rebel control in the east and regime control in the

west since shortly after fighting there began in mid-2012.

In the surrounding countryside the situation is largely the reverse, with rebels controlling much of the area west of the city and regime forces much of the eastern countryside.

Government forces advanced around the east of the city last year, but the frontlines had been relatively static in recent weeks.

On Monday, Syrian daily AlWatan, which is close to the government, said regime forces planned to encircle the city in a new offensive. And the Observatory had reported an influx of troops reinforcing government forces in the area.

since December Mr Modi also said that “everyone has the undeniable right to retain or adopt the religion of his or her choice without coercion or undue influence”.

Christian groups accuse hardline Hindu groups, emboldened

by Mr Modi’s landslide in last year’s general election, of carrying out the recent attacks, but police say there is little evidence for this. They say they have provided security to more than 200 churches in the capital.

Taliban ambush, kill six policemen in Afghanistan ÏÏÏTaliban insurgents have killed six policemen in southern Afghanistan after luring them to an abandoned building by setting off a bomb, officials said on Tuesday.

The attack took place Monday night in the Maiwand district of Kandahar province, 45km from Kandahar city.

“They were fired on as they arrived at the house. Unfortunately six police were martyred,” provincial police spokesman Zia Durrani told AFP. Samim Khpalwak, the provincial governor’s spokesperson, confirmed the details of the incident.

A bomb exploded in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore on Tuesday, killing at least, three people, police said.

The blast happened close to the city police headquarters in the centre of the city, Pakistan’s second-largest and the power base of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

“According to initial reports it was a car bomb but we are still determining the exact nature of the blast,” senior police official Haider Ashraf told AFP. “At least three people have been killed in the explosion.”

Lahore, Pakistan’s cultural capital and seen as relatively liberal, has largely escaped the worst of the Islamist violence that has engulfed the country in the last decade.

The blast comes just days after 22 people were killed in a gun and suicide attack on a Shi’ite mosque in the northwestern city of Peshawar.

15 electrocuted in Haiti carnival accident ÏÏÏAt least 15 people were dead

after being electrocuted by a highvoltage cable as they were riding a carnival parade float in Haiti on Tuesday, emergency officials said.

Dozens were also injured in the overnight accident in Portau-Prince, Communications Minister Rotchild Francois said in a statement.

The float was carrying a popular Haitian rap group called Barikad Crew, Haiti’s Radio Metropole reported.

It struck a cable as it passed underneath it in a parade watched by tens of thousands of people.

The rap group’s star singer, who goes by the name “Fantom”, was struck directly by the fallen cable and is in critical condition, the website Haiti Press Network said.

The government said the accident occurred near the city centre on the Champ de Mars at around 02:48 on the second day of the Carnival.

Francois

Opinion 14

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Who is afraid of Prof. Jega?

I

Michael Nnebe

n the last couple of months, the INEC chairman, Prof. Atahiru Jega, has been under the gun. Many in the PDP and other Southern stakeholders have repeatedly accused him of working to deliver Buhari and the APC, and that he has skewed everything to favour the North. If you scrutinise the statistics, you may readily agree with these charges. Since the elections were postponed, it seems the table has turned, and now it is the APC, Obasanjo, and other Northern stakeholders who are accusing Jega of either giving in to pressure from the presidency, the PDP, or working for them outright.

Once again, a careful analysis of ongoing events may lend some credibility to those charges as well.

In spite of all these apparentness, the truth is that INEC under Jega has finally become truly independent, and that is a frightening thought to those in the presidency as well as the opposition. Nigerians are used to manipulating or rather buying outright the loyalty of those in charge of conducting our national elections. Even on state levels where we have state electoral

bodies, can you imagine an electoral officer not delivering all or most of the ruling party’s candidates? It is just not possible.

One of Jonathan’s greatest achievements is in appointing Jega, and giving him the total freedom to conduct elections without undue influence or pressure from the presidency. I am sure there are those in the presidency who now consider this a blunder. But it is a win for Nigeria. Jega’s independence is so vivid that until this postponement happened no one has ever accused him of working for the presidency. It is quite a new thing in Nigeria, or indeed most of Africa, for people to look at an electoral umpire with suspicion of working against the ruling party.

They are usually accused of collusion. But if Jega is truly independent, why would anyone be afraid of him. Many things have happened in the last year to make people question his independence.

When Jega planned to create additional 30,000 polling units with more than 70 percent of the new units to be located in the North, people asked questions, especially when it was revealed that he was creating more polling units in war

ravaged Northeast than in the entire South. The accusation forced him to back off that plan.

More recently, we found out that Jega and his officers have orchestrated a lopsided distribution of PVCs across the country with most states in the North scoring well over 70 percent distribution, while the average Southern state hover between 34 and 50 percent. Some of those states like Borno and Yobe in the heart of the Boko Haram war with many displaced citizens have over 80 percent of their PVC distributed.

No state in the Southeast has achieved beyond 50 percent.

Apparently, INEC handed over most PVCs to Imams, Emirs, local government chairmen, in many Northern states for distribution.

On the other hand, people in many Southern states like Lagos went back repeatedly to their local INEC distribution centres, and were unable to pick up their PVC. Ironically, the state in the entire South with the highest distribution rate was Rivers, an APC state. Whether by coincidence or by design, all these raise suspicion. It did not help matters that 12 out of 13 INEC departmental heads are all North-

erners. All these have collectively made the PDP and many Southern stakeholders highly suspicious of Jega.

It is no wonder that the APC supporters were getting ready for a landslide on February 14, at least in their own minds. Equally, there was no doubt that the PDP had panicked at the possibility of actually losing the presidential election. In the end, the security agencies told Jega emphatically that he is on his own, if he goes on to conduct the elections as scheduled. Unfortunately Jega got scared and fell for it. It now finally seemed that Jega has been played, and today, it is the APC and Obasanjo that are terrified and rightly so. Indications are that the PDP has moved into plan B, and will now go on to win this presidential election come March 28 by all means necessary. All of a sudden Jega has become the loneliest man in Nigeria, suspected by the PDP and others, and now hated by the APC and others for giving in to pressure. But win or lose, the creation of any level of INEC independence is a big win for Nigeria’s democracy, and the more both parties have reasons to remain afraid of Jega, the better for Nigeria.

2015: Issues in the Nigerian general election

I

Barth Amakihe

f those to whom power is delegated do well, they will be respected, if not, they will be despised. Thomas Pain The beauty of democracy is the opportunity it gives the citizens to vote for the candidates of their choice. The time to exercise this franchise is here again. The question is whether political moneybags, intimidators, who use violence to cow the electorate and who use the power of incumbency to impose candidates that are deficit in administrative management or lack moral courage to shun bribery and corruption, will be voted for?

In as much as these vices create stunted growth in the body politic of Nigeria, the country’s voters who now have the opportunity to cast their ballot, must be given a free reign to make wise choices. And so far, and for the first time, they have a clear choice to elect candidates at all levels of government. Accepting bribes, money gifts and other inducements must be avoided.

People should vote their conscience because, if bad leaders are elected, then they should not

complain when state funds are embezzled or stolen, and basic infrastructure like schools, hospitals, roads and power are not provided.

The opportunity to choose or vote for responsible candidates must begin from the local governments, state and National Assembly, Senate, governorship, as well as the Presidency. Let us the period of the postponed elections and reflect on the peace and progress of our nation, and examine critically our conscience and where we want the country to be in the 21st century.

In view of the above choices, voters must examine every advertisement that is deceitful, most especially, claims by politicians on lofty projects, which had not been executed. Those politicians whose stock in trade include building castles in the air, as well as, using the architectural project designs to deceive voters by claiming credits for non existing infrastructures must equally be made to suffer electoral defeats. There is nothing wrong in showing completed projects to the electorate, but projects on the drawing board should never be used as campaign tool to deceive the public. Politicians must realise that in this day and age, the citi-

zens are no longer gullible. Equally to be shunned are those politicians who find it hard to articulate or express their agenda and plans or run away from debates to avoid answering questions from discerning Nigerians.

Secondly, the electorate must eschew intimidations and vote out politicians that are out to grab and loot government treasury. Also, incumbent politicians that have performed abysmally or had nothing to show for their tenure must be sent packing. Some of these politicians rig the primaries and impose candidates that will protect their stolen loots and preserve their atrocious malpractices.

Voters must read between the lines and vote for honest and hardworking candidates. They must not allow governors that performed abysmally in their respective states to retire to the Senate. Nigeria’s political history is awash with past governors that bulldozed their way into the Senate because of their inclination to use the legislative chamber to evade prosecution for embezzlement.

With exception of few governors, the great majority did not perform to expectation.

Voters must not use party affiliations as yard-stick to support candidates, but must look at the character and ability to serve the people creditably. For governors and the presidency, voters must look for technocrats or professionals that have the capacity to turn around the state or national economy. They should equally shun charlatans or politicians who cannot create employment outside politics. Carrier politicians need to confine themselves in the legislatures to avoid looting state treasuries.

Also, politicians from different parties must focus on the issues of what, how and when they will execute the projects and promises they made to the electorate. For many years, now the insecurity posed by Boko-Haram has left thousands of Nigerians dead.

And as the President Goodluck administration is battling with the insurgency, all Nigerians including the opposition must be involved in fighting terrorism. No politician or political party must benefit from the present state of insecurity. May all the hypocrites who sympathise with the terrorists fail in their bid to hoodwink Nigerians.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Angry Ondo residents protest ‘crazy electricity bills’ Tosin Ajuwon Akure

ÏÏÏHundreds

of residents of Ondo town in Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State, on Tuesday, besieged the local office of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) to protest what they called the incessant “crazy electricity bills”.

The protesters, armed with lit candles, local lamps and placards with inscriptions like: “We Reject Yahoo Power Supply”; “Ondo Kingdom Rejects Crazy Electricity Bills”; “Ondo Kingdom Says No To Light Sabotage”; “Epileptic Power Supply -- No More Fixed Charge”, chanted solidarity songs and paralysed human and

Mimiko

vehicular activities on the popular Brigadier Ademulegun Road.

Spokesperson for the protesters and President of the Ekimogun Youth Fora (EYF), Felix Akinmoladun, said since the privatisa-

tion of the power sector, with its handing over to the BEDC, the people of the community have been subjected to constant high electricity tariff.

Akinmoladun disclosed that in the past two months, there had been epileptic power supply to the community, despite consumers paying high for unused electricity, adding that the situation worsened upon the assumption of office by a new District Business Manager, Engr. Auta Yahanna.

“The people mostly affected by this situation of incessant crazy bills are mostly business owners, especially, frozen goods sellers, hoteliers, who now charge more as a result of shortage in electricity in the community”, he said.

Forum frowns at utterances of elder statesmen Saka Bolaji Minna

ÏÏÏThe Forum of

Former National Assembly Members, Niger State chapter, has frowned at the level of irresponsibility among the elite in the country, saying they are expected to be more committed to growing Nigeria’s democratic process.

Baba Shehu Agaie, former House of Representatives member representing Agaie, Lapai, Katcha federal constituency, disclosed this at a press conference in Minna on Tuesday, where he said elder statesmen should encourage Nigerians to embrace peace, especially, when the general election would hold

Zamfara police warn against violence Umar Mohammed Gusau

ÏÏÏThe

newly Police Commissioner to Zamfara State Command, Mr. Olufemi David, has warned politicians to avoid inflammatory statements.

Speaking with journalists

soon.

In an oblique reference to former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who tore his membership card of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday, Agaie called on elders and leaders of the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to avoid actions capable of undermining peace in the country.

“In the First Republic, we did not expect the kind of politics played by present-day politicians. My major concern is the utterances of our elders. It is instructive to intimate our elders that we need peace, they must realise that Nigeria will still exist after the general election”, he added.

Obasanjo

in Gusau, the state capital, CP David said the command, under his watch, would do everything possible to exercise its mandate in ensuring the maintenance of law and order during the forthcoming elections.

He, therefore, urged politicians to be mindful of their actions and utterances, with a view to curb political thuggery in the state, saying “political parties would be held responsible for any act of political violence”.

The Commissioner further dismissed allegations that

police arrested a vehicle loaded with INEC’s ballot papers in favour of PDP, saying it was only samples designed to educate the electorate on how to cast their votes during the general election.

“According to our investigations, the papers were only samples meant for voter education for the teeming members of the PDP, and it is, constitutionally, allowed for all registered political parties to issue samples to educate their supporters on voting”, the CP stated.

15 News

Timessearch Sarah ODEDE

When will national ID be ready? ÏÏÏPlease help find out from the National Identity Management Commission when the National Identity smartcard will be ready.

I had long applied for their National Identity Numbers but till date, I have got no response.

I learnt that very soon, ap-

Anyim

plicants like me who have no identification card would not be considered for appointment in any of the federal or state government offices.

Mr. Christopher Akao P.O. Box 3326 Yaba Lagos The enquiry of Mr. Christopher Akao was taken up with a top official of the National Identity Management Commission, Abuja who craved anonymity.

The official said the National Identity smartcard would soon be made available to Nigerians who have applied for them.

The official called on those yet to enroll for the NIN to visit enrolment centres close to them to do so.

In a nutshell, the National Identity Card would soon be ready for collection.

When will Eko, Ikeja Discos stop estimated billings?

Please help find out what the Eko, Ikeja Discos are up to in the case of estimated billings.

Much has been said about this issue, but to date, nothing concrete is heard concerning this worrisome issue which is affecting ordinary Nigerians like us.

It beats my imagination that after the privatisation of the PHCN, power supply has dropped consid- Nebo erably and darkness has begun to rule in the Centre of Excellence, (Lagos State). So much has been heard about this issue, yet nothing is experienced as to what the Eko/Ikeja Discos are doing to stop estimated bills, which has been sending people in Lagos Island “crazy”.

Please educate us on this worrisome issue and let us know where exactly we are heading in this era of PHCN privatization.

Fatai Olabisi 103 Kakawa Street Lagos Island.

Investigations into Mr. Olabisi’s complaint revealed that the Eko Electricity and its Ikeja counterpart, the two Discos covering Lagos State and some parts of Ogun State have vowed to eradicate estimated billing with their new metering system, which they promised would be robust.

However, an official who preferred anonymity told the TIMESEARCH that the two Discos, in a joint statement said they were working with their technical partners to unveil a metering system that would eradicate ‘crazy billings in the states.

According to the official, the statement said “We are working in conjunction with our technical partners to come up with a robust metering system that will serve customers effectively.

“This system will eradicate the complaints of estimated billing and check energy theft being perpetrated by people tinkering with the pre-paid meters.

The power sector requires an overhaul of existing infrastructure, investment in new technology and capacity-building to enable us to move to a position of stable power supply and we are making the required investment to make it happen.”

Investigation revealed further that the two Discos blamed inadequate gas supply, grid limitations and sabotage of the system for the current power situation in the country.

16

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

2011 ELITE DYNAMIC SOCIAL CLUB OF NIGERIA

DUNAMIS CRUSADER CHURCH OF GOD

This is to inform to inform the general public that the above named club has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under part “c” of the Companies And Allied Matters Act 1990.

This is to inform to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under part “c” of the Companies And Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Nwokocha Johnbosco Chigozie -President 2 Udefi Monday Jeremiah -Treasurer 3 .Awam Sunde -Secretary.Km 4.Lambert Oliver Uchechukwu- Financial Secretary 5. Mmaduakolam Promise Ugochukwu. -Pro

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Igoche Israel - General Overseer 2. Yahaya Mack - Secretary 3. Israel Cecilia Ladi - Treasurer

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To promote peace and unity among the club members.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar general, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE CHRIST THE CHRISTIAN CAPTAIN MINISTRY This is to inform to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under part “c” of the Companies And Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Adegbola Michael Kabiru 2. Adegbola Florence Oluyemisi 3. Akinlowo Moses Adewole

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

2. To Teach the Bible 3. To pray for the nation for peace and development.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar general, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE SAFE HAVEN ORPHANAGE FOUNDATION

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar general, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

PUBLIC NOTICE

This is to inform to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under part “c” of the Companies And Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ogbodo Ifeanyi Michael - President 2. Iheanacho Mmaduabuchukwu Callistus - Vice-President 3. Madubuike Ikechukwu Joshua 4. Okore Joshua Okore 5. Uzoegbu Andrew Nzeadi 6. Ifechukwu Kenechukwu Pri 7. Maluze Basil Ogbonna-Secretary 8. Okeke Innocent Uchenna THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach and propagate the gospel of Jesus Christ 2. To maintain Christian faith and unity among brothers and beyond.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar general, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE RIVERS/BAYELSA SHIPPER’S ASSOCIATION The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja, Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matter Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Adebambo Adetokunbo - President 2. Sahid -Adebambo Modupeola - Vice-President 3. Ogunsakin Atinuke Shakirat - Secretary 4. Owolabi Abiola Adebayo - Member 5. Adebambo Adesimbo Olawale- Member

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. HRH Obong Patrick Udoh - Chairman 2. Mr. Ofonasaha Udofia - Vice Chairman 3. Sir. Sam Epia - Secretary 4. Alhaji Masud Alini Idowu - Member 5. Hon. Dan Okeke - Member 6. Sir. (Engr) Innocent Akuvue - Member 7. Chief S. O. Megwa - Member

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar general, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

Signed: Secretary

LIFE BUILDERS AND CHARITY FOUNDATION

ALABA BIBLE BELIEVERS ASSEMBLY EDAN

This is to inform to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under part “c” of the Companies And Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. Provision of support and shelter to disadvantaged children & women 2. Emergency protection for vulnerable children.

3. Youth counseling.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

PUBLIC NOTICE

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:1. To seek the promotion of the interest of members on matters affecting the shipment of exports and imports to and from Nigeria.

2. To serve as a forum for the exchange of ideas on how to enhance the activities of members in sectors of the economy in which they participate.

3. To eliminate or minimize the hardship experienced by members in matters relating to shipment of imports and exports.

4. To provide a forum where members will speak with one voice on matters affecting their members.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.Signed:

C. A. E. OBISIKE (ESQ)

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

HELMET OF SALVATION MINISTRY INT’L

GOD’S TABERNACLE OF HOPE RESTORATION

The general public is hereby notified that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

TRUSTEES 1. Onyeisi Ngozi Fire 2. Onyeisi Ngozo Chukwudi Ezekiel 3. Mark Ekata Joshua

TRUSTEES 1. Mrs Owolabi Omobola Kehinde - General Overseer 2. Mr Owolabi Olubowale Oludamola - Secretary 3. Prophet Ajayi Amos

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.

To liberate Nigerians from poverty through empowerment.

2.

To promote godliness and uprightness.

Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General. Corporate Affairs Commission, 420, Tigris Crescent,Off Aguyi Ironsi Street. PMB 198, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the date of publication.

Signed : PALACE SOLICITORS 08023865797, 08033407197

PUBLIC NOTICE

AIM AND OBJECTIVE To preach the word of gospel.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General. Corporate Affairs Commission, 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street. PMB 198, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the date of publication.

PUBLIC NOTICE ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA MOVIE DIRECTORS

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Association has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Association has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

TRUSTEES 1. Oladoyinbo Israel Ariyo - Chairman 2. Jamiu Adeosun - General Secretary 3. Kehinde Ajayi - Treasurer 4. Saheed Kareem Oladeinde 5. Bakare Tajudeen Kayode 6. Solomon Adewusi Olugbenga 7. Lamidi Badmus 8. Aina Moruff Alabi 9. Aina Folorunso 10. Akinola Musibau Akanji

TRUSTEES 1.Chuks Okpala 2.Cyril Dova 3.Everest Emeka Odum 4.Kenneth Ibeanusi 5.Ebuka Chukwu

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To foster unity among member

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.To unite all movie directors in Nigeria under on umbrella 2.To promote unity and peace among movie directors in Nigeria.

Signed : Pastor Samson Aina

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TRUSTEES 1. Prophet Ekpoha Clement Etim - President / General Superintendent 2. Pastor (Mrs) Helen Clement Etim - Vice President Asst General Superintendent 3. Mr. Joseph Etim Ekpoha 4. Evang. Mary Ibrahim 5. Elder Daniel Akumah Okoro 6. Mrs. Cecilia Amos

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CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as Mrs Amarachukwu Uloma Ibe now wish to be known and addressed as Amarachukwu Uloma Ebo. All former documents remain valid. Universal Basic Education Commission, Abuja and the general public should please take note .

CHANGE OF NAME

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CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known as Miss Oseni Risikat Olasimibo, now wish to be known as Mrs. Kuku Risikat Olasimibo. All former documents remain valid. The General Public, please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known as Shangodeji Busayo, now wish to be known as Jemike Timothy Busayo. All former documents remain valid.

The General Public, please take note.

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CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known as Ugochi Imma Joe Duru, now wish to be known as Ugochi Imma Ndukwu.

All former documents remain valid. The General Public, please take note.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Politics Uche Ekwunife

17

s

EKWUNIFE

Umeh is settling personal scores

Member, representing Aniocha/Njikoka /Dunkofia Federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Mrs. Uche Ekwunife spoke with DORIS NNABUENYI at her campaign office in Awka, Anambra state disclosing why her opponent, Chief Victor Umeh and his campaign materials are being attacked by hoodlums; why she left All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and her stand on the confusion in her party over authentic candidates in the state

among others. Excerpts: You have spent two terms at the House of Representatives, how has the journey been?

It has been a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. I say challenges because our nation has gone through some trying moments in the last couple of years and as you know, we represent the people so whatever happens to our people affects us, especially in the discharge of our responsibilities as lawmakers. It

also presented us with opportunities on the other hand, because the diverse challenges thrown up allow us to look critically into our extant laws and see how we can amend relevant sections to fit into the realities of our time.

Other laws that are obviously obsolete are also repealed and reenacted.

Debates on the floor of the 6th and 7th Assembly have been very robust and I am glad to be a part of the process in the last eight CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

TAKAI

Kwankwaso committed rape of democracy Malam Salihu Muhammad Sagir Takai is the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship Candidate for Kano State in the forthcoming elections.

He contested against Governor Rabi`u Musa Kwankwaso in 2011 under the platform of the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and lost. With the emergence of All Progressives Congress (APC), he declined to join the mega party, rather he preferred to work with his former boss, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau now Minister of Education. In this interview with MOMOH ALEX OGWEMOH in Kano, he bares his mind on his preparedness to complete the projects abandoned by the Kwankwaso administration if voted into office in April. He condemned Governor Kwankwaso for starving local governments in the state

Obasanjo

of federal allocation while diverting the funds and described it as a rape of democracy. Excerpts: What actually motivated you into politics and when did you join?

In the village, Takai, where I come from, we have been with our people and we understand their feelings and problems militating against their developments. We need to make them have the impact of development by getting involved in politics and bringing them closer to the corridor of powers. Again, education is another bottleneck that contributed to their backwardness, so I felt the only way we could eradicate this cankerworms is either by scholarships or sponsorship and getting involved in politics where we can

Agoro raps Obasanjo over attack on Jonathan

have a say in the government of the day.

Our people have suffered and have been humiliated so much.

Paying their taxes even with the little they realised from their farm produce without getting the dividends of tax- payers in return. When I looked at all this, I decided to come into politics in order to reach out to them and this was in 1997.

Which area do you intends to give priority if voted into power, come April 2015?

Anything that involves development in the society comprises human and physical, in order to bring peace without rancor and unrest of the people who voted for you, one need to balance the equation but with little more atCONTINUED ON PAGE 19

Former Presidential candidate of the Progressives Action Council (PAC), Dr. Olapade Agoro has berated former President Olusegun Obasanjo for saying that Jonathan is afraid that Buhari will jail him if he wins the forthcoming elections.

In a statement, he said the

Kwankwaso

statement credited to Obasanjo is not only a “condemnable vituperation of an hallucinating elder Statesman but one doing no good to the cause of General Muhammadu Buhari as well as to the cause of democracy and the rule of law�.

He described Obasanjo as

an unrepentant double dealer in the matter of the North and South dichotomy, saying the former President should be better informed that in a democracy governed by the rule of law, the President lacks the power to jail anybody CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Politics 18

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

‘It’s time Ndigbo stopped playing ethnic, regional politics’ years. It is not for me to blow my trumpet but I have represented my people very well in the last eight years and they can testify to this. I have so far sponsored 15 Bills and 9 motions in the House of Representatives and I believe that is a significant feat.

How would your experience rub off on the senatorial seat and why do you want to be at the senate?

The reward for hard word is often times greater responsibilities.

It is simple: I am going to the senate as an experienced lawmaker and as such will be eligible to handle some responsibilities that first time legislators might not be entitled to or considered for. As a matter of fact, the debates on issues on the floor of the green chamber is often more intense than those in the red chambers because of the larger number of representatives. 360 representatives usually imply that you have about 360 opinions on a particular issue at each point in time. So whenever you are to present your Bill or motion on the floor, you have to be prepared to accommodate varied opinions and what I called ‘hard tackles’. So you see that such a background has equipped me better and placed me on a vantage position than even those who go straight into the senate from other fields of leadership. I now understand the politics and intrigues of the game as a legislator.

This will definitely translate into more dividends of democracy for my people. Make no mistakes; the legislator is not just there to make laws for the good governance of the country, high level politicking is involved in who gets what for their people.

Also the fact that I am a member of the ruling party, the PDP gives me an edge over all my cocontenders when it comes to con-

necting our people to the Centre.

My aspiration for the senate is not motivated by the desire to go to Abuja and bench warm the seat in the red chamber; but to enable me bring dividends of democracy and double all what I have done in Anaocha/Njikoka/Dunukofia Federal Constituency across the entire Anambra Central.

Your party, the PDP has been enmeshed in confusion over the authentic candidates for the 2015 election. How do you feel about it?

By the Electoral Act, it is the exclusive preserve and prerogative of a political party to present its candidate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for all elective positions.

Doing otherwise will be an aberration. It’s this kind of rascality that exists in partisan politics that fuelled the seeming imbroglio in Anambra PDP. Thank God the verdict of the Court of Appeal in Abuja on Friday February 6 has done justice to this issue.

What is your reaction to the recent legislation in Anambra State House of Assembly?

The passing of such unpopular Bill into law was an aberration.

It was fatal to the legislature that embarked on such futile but avoidable exercise. The worse misfortune that can befall a legislature is to make a law that cannot be enforced or executed. If you look very closely at the ingredients of that law, you will discover that its substance or base is founded upon the exclusive list of the Schedule to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (As amended) which falls squarely within the exclusive jurisdiction of the National Assembly. However, as you are aware, those are issues of the past and we have to move forward. Our victory at the Appeal Court clearly puts paid to all of that and we thank the judiciary for remaining the bastion of

Mark

“The worse misfortune that can befall a legislature is to make a law that cannot be enforced or executed.”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

Umeh

“We cannot afford to come to Abuja and be playing opposition politics which will only further disadvantage and impoverish us”

the oppressed.

You were in APGA before, what actually led to your dumping the party for PDP? Let me make it clear that I am still a firm believer in the core values and ideals propagated by our leader, Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu of blessed memory which is to improve the lots of the Igbos.

In order to realise these ideals, I think it is necessary for us to play at the centre. We cannot afford to come to Abuja and be playing opposition politics which will only further disadvantage and impoverish us. All these, coupled with wide consultations with my Constituents informed my decision to defect to the ruling party.

Regional politics will not take us

“Let me make it clear that I am still a firm believer in the core values and ideals propagated by our leader, Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu of blessed memory which is to improve the lots of the Igbos.”

anywhere in the nation’s political space. My people have long been in the relegation and I believe it is time for us to play at the centre.

Recently, the APGA candidate, Victor Umeh accused you of destroying his billboards, what is your take on that?

I am not a crude politician neither do I indulge in campaign of calumny. I like playing by the rules and giving others their due respect. Let me say for the umpteenth time that I do not employ the services of miscreants and mischief makers in my campaign organisation like Umeh does. Umeh has personal scores to settle with people all over the state and beyond. It is rather unfortunate that despite the fact that he knows where his problems are coming from, he still prefers to shift his woes on my campaign organisation.

It is a known fact that Umeh has created a web of enmity around himself in the manner in which he has led the party for 13 years.

Besides, the way he conducted APGA primaries in Abia, Imo, Ebonyi and Enugu states where he is alleged to have openly favored unpopular aspirants against the interest of his party faithful for material reasons left much to be desired of good leadership.

Here in Anambra State, the conduct of the Local Government Elections and the selection process adopted by Victor Umeh as the party Chairman left majority of his party faithful disgruntled to the extent that the whole world is aware that they do not mean well for him. Just the other day, a group of unhappy young people, numbering over 800, under the aegis of one Association of past Councilors, openly protested against Umeh’s candidacy and made it clear that they will work against him in the coming elections. Do not forget that I was also CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

Ojukwu

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

tention to human sector.

Recently, some individuals in the 44 local government areas of the state filed a suit against Governor Rabi`u Musa Kwankwaso for diverting the state local governments` federal allocations’ funds for gigantic projects in the state metropolis, how do you see this?

In accordance with the provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, government is divided into three segments, federal, states and local governments respectively and that the federal has to reach out to the states and its local government for meaningful developments. This money allocated from the federation accounts to the state and local government must be equitably distributed for the developmental projects of the two arms of the government.

What Governor Kwankwaso is doing in Kano State is totally wrong and every reasonable indigenes and people in the state have condemned this in strong terms and described it as a rape of democratic dividends of the people in the local government areas of the state. During the eight years of Shekarau government in the state, he was remitting local government federation accounts to them when due and he never allowed the Interim Management Officers (IMOs) stayed unnecessary like what governor Kwankwaso did over three and half years in Kano State in his outgoing four years.

For anybody, a governor of the state or the chairman of the LGAs to divert the fund to another project elsewhere, is a rape of democratic dividends against the people of the area.

There will be many uncompleted projects by the outgoing governor Kwankwaso administration in the state, and if you eventually assume the leadership of the state under the platform of the PDP, do you intend to complete the projects?

Certainly, the projects are for the people and development of the state and the money is for the people of Kano State. For in-

Ekwunife: Jonathan deserves to continue

19 Politics

‘How Kwankwaso diverted council funds’

Kwankwaso, INSET: Takai

“For anybody, a governor of the state or the chairman of the LGAs to divert the fund to another project elsewhere, is a rape of democratic dividends against the people of the area”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

a member of that party until my aspiration to represent my people at the Senate, Anambra Central.

His sins are uncountable. One can go on and on and I’m wondering if he thought the people are so naive. He should be advised to look inwards for his woes. Violence remains his stock-in-trade and this is evident in the recent

stance, when Malam Shekarau was the governor, all the uncompleted projects left behind, were abandoned by the present administration of Governor Kwankwaso for reasons best known to him.

If by the Grace of God I become the next governor of this state, I will proudly and honestly complete all the uncompleted projects by this regime.

Yourself as the PDP governorship candidate and Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the APC governorship candidate in the state have become household names in the state going by your supporters, what edge

do you have over your opponent?

I cannot say I have any edge, advantages and chances over my political opponents in the state.

What we the PDP are doing is to reach out to the people of the state and sell to them our party’s manifestoes. I believe it is the Almighty God that appoints true faithful and honest rulers and this is why I cannot say categorically I have an edge over my political opponent.

What message do you have for the electorate in the state?

My message to the people of Kano State is to appeal to them to be law abiding and embrace the

rule of law in accordance with the good administration of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.

And also to bear in mind that both the PDP and APC in the state of Kano are fighting towards the same goal for the development of the state. The peace accord signed by the political parties both at the federal and state levels is a good drive for peaceful, fair and credible elections. They should bear in mind that politics is not a door-die affair, hence they should desist from language and actions devoid of rancor and thuggery during the electioneering campaigns and after the elections.

several attacks by his supporters on my teeming supporters and campaign materials.

A lot have been said about insecurity in Nigeria, would you score Jonathan high?

President Goodluck Jonathan has done tremendously well to hold this nation as a united entity for this period of time, given the spate of insecurity induced by some disgruntled elements who do

not have the interest of our nation at heart. If Jonathan could perform this well in the face of these challenges, we can only imagine what he would have done given a conducive atmosphere. Insecurity is not about Mr. President alone, it is the collective responsibility of everyone. I believe he is on course and very soon all these will be in the past. The history of every nation is usually replete with notable

high points. This is certainly one of the high points in our nation’s history. You will agree with me that Mr. President is having to weather the storm generated by past regimes in this country and I tell you that on a scale of 10, President Jonathan has scored no less than 7.5. He deserves to be given more opportunity to continue the Transformation of this country which he has set in motion.

Politics 20

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Remi Oladoye, Ibadan The tremendous support and endorsement from the Royal fathers, community leaders and people of Oke Ogun and Ibarapa for the Labour Party’s gubernatorial candidate in the forthcoming election, Otunba Adebayo Alao Akala and other candidates of the party has enhanced their chances of coming out victorious in the forthcoming election.

The campaign rally which kicked off from Igbeti moved to more than 20 prominent communities in Oke Ogun including Saki, Kishi, Igboho, Igbope, Ogbooro, Ago Amodu, Ago Are, Oje Owode, Sepeteri, Okeho, Ilero, Iganna, Ipapo, Iwere- Ile, Ijio, Isemi Ile, Komu, Babaode, Idiko Ago, Idiko-Ile, Ilaji-Ile. Tede, Irawo, Ofiki, Owotoro, Ipapo, Alaga, Igbojaye, among others saw the Labour Party crew including the leaders of the party given heroic welcome.

Also in Ibarapa, the former governor visited Igangan, Ayete, Tapa, Idere, Maya, Igboora, Eruwa and Lanlate where he called on market women, traditional rulers and community leaders and at the same times received thousands of people into the fold of the party.

Akala flaunted his administration’s achievements and assured them of doing more if he is elected in the forthcoming election. “ I am confidently saying that OkeOgun benefited immensely during my term as governor and I hope to do more if elected,” he said.

Part of his campaign point in OkeOgun is the citing of Campuses of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, (LAUTECH) in Igboho and Iseyin, construction of new interlinks roads in the zone such as Okeho- Iseyin road, Sepeteri-Tewure and many other roads in the zone with a pledge to complete the Saki- Ilesa Bariba, Iwere-Ile -Ayegun a border community with Benin Republic and others which were not touched by the present administration.

“I knew how Oke Ogun was when I took over from my predecessors and how I left it when I stepped aside in 2011, till now nothing much has been done by the present administration but I am coming back to continue to transform OkeOgun. Devel-

Agoro raps Obasanjo, backs attack on Jonathan

Akala

Pomp, as Akala takes campaign to Ibarapa, Oke-Ogun “I knew how Oke Ogun was when I took over from my predecessors and how I left it when I stepped aside in 2011, till now nothing much has been done by the present administration but I am coming back to continue to transform OkeOgun.” opment cannot be politicised, Oke Ogun deserves the best of everything because of its economic value and benefit to the state,” he said.

On the development of Okere George Dam, Akala told the Aseyin, Oba Adekunle Salawu Ologunebi that his administra-

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

without recourse to the law courts.

His words: under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria there is of course separation of power stipulating what the boundaries are between the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary”.

tion had concluded an arrangements with a private organisation to use the dam to generate electricity, utilise its tourism potentials which will also boost the economy of the state and reduce reliance on national grid for electricity since we can generate it on our own”

According to him, Obasanjo is exhibiting vendetta antics and vindictiveness of an enemy wanting his pound of flesh and needs to be told that the courts are not there to jail anybody without affording the person a fair hearing.

He said the offence Obasanjo will like to see Buhari sending Jonathan to jail, although yet

He also pledged to conduct local government election so as to take the dividends of democracy to the people at the grassroot. “I will not be posting district officers like the APC governments are doing but rather create an opportunity for the people at the grassroots to also have their own government, their councillors will know where the shoe pinches and he will be accessible to all the people, chairmen too will be given the chance to exercise their constitutional right and responsibilities to the people”.

He also raised the expectations of the people of Ado Awaye, on the only suspended lake in the continent of Africa

to be made public, portrayed something beyond the ordinary adding that the former President has only succeeded telling the whole world that the leopard can never change its spots and that General Buhari, once a dictator will ever be a dictator ready to send anybody to jail without respect to the rule of law.

which he said would be developed to improve the economic development and socio life of the people.

Some of the traditional rulers declared their total support for Labour Party while some were diplomatic in their statements, though they acknowledged the contributions of Akala’s administration to the development of their domain and prayed for his success at the polls.

Majority of the traditional and community leaders testified to the good work and human relations and kindness of Alao Akala and gave their words of encouragement and support for LP and Akala.

Agoro

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Features RETIRED GRAVEYARD CHIEF

Yes, people steal from the grave, talk with the dead

More than three decades of working at Atan Cemetery in Yaba, Lagos has made Chief M.A. Adeosun an expert on the antics of the dead.

AGOZINO AGOZINO was his guest over the weekend and reports from the graveyard.

If you have doubts that thieves can steal from the graves, and that people still communicate with the dead in this age, this graveyard worker for 35 years is here to convince you. He told Dai-

21

s ly Times at a rendezvous it is not a fable, nor a myth.

The eldest son of the first Baale of Coker town in Ifo, Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State, the late Chief Oladipo Adeosun, Chief M.A. Adeosun’s passion for packaging the dead for burial led him to Atan Cemetery where he worked for 35 years before he retired in 1985.

Celebrated as the ‘Baale of the dead’ versed in grave matters and encounters with stubborn corpses, the elder graveyard states-

man now counsels and gives directions to young operators in the highly unsung graveyard business, and when matters get knotty in the environment of the dead, he shows up.

In this close-up chat at Atan Cemetery, the venerable ‘Baba’, as he is called by graveyard workers and bereaved visitors, took Daily Times into the mysteries and intrigues of the dead, and confirmed some of the eerie things noised outside the walls of cemeteries.

Whether you believe it or not, Adeosun said the dead do actually rise up at nights in Atan Cemetery but under certain circumstances. Hear the veteran: “From my experiences working in Atan Cemetery for over thirty years, I can tell you truthfully that the dead do actually rise from their graves at nights, but it is not that they just come out and stroll about.

“It happens when one of their living relatives die prematurely, CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

A cross section of youths dancing to the glory of God at the event

Day rebellious Isoko youths turned a new leaf It was a historic moment for Isoko youths under the aegis of Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) Worldwide, led by Comrade Victor Okemena Egbo as they gathered under the canopy of God for the first time since inception. JOE OGBODU reports from Oleh.

In an area notorious for violent gangs and community clashes, where restive youths spoil for war with leaders and royal fathers, and palaces are razed during communal

crisis, the gathering of the same youths in their hundreds, chanting ‘Odudukele for Christ’ (All Power for Christ) was a healthy development Elders in the Isokospeaking people of the Niger Delta welcomed with great joy.

The event which took place at the Oleh Township Stadium, Oleh, the Headquarters of Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State was initiated to herald the Isoko National Youths Assembly (INYA) conference held a fortnight ago.

It was gathered that the event

was packaged to chart a new roadmap for Isoko youths in the next dispensation.

Our correspondent reported an unusual change of attitude in the youths who all went down on their knees and prayed for upliftment of their generation, for industrialisation, peace, unity and political relevance.

The event attracted the Anglican Bishop in charge of Oleh Diocese, Rt Rev. John Aruakpor (JP); Ven. Robert Oziwele, Rev. James Efe among other clerics who led the youths in exhortations and

ministrations.

A former leader of Isoko South legislative arms, Hon Evan Egbo, took the only scripture reading at the event which was followed by tremendous songs of praises by Aruakpor Jnr. Adorned in white T-shirts with face caps to mark the day, the youths engaged in another round of prayers, crying to God for special favour on Isoko land and for peace and unity among traditional rulers of the various Kingdoms in Isoko land. They also pleaded for political relevance for

the youths and Isoko land. They also prayed those seeking elective offices who were present at the occasion.

All the speakers at the event were joyful over the attitudinal change among the youths in the land and therefore commended the new president of the youth organisation, Comrade Egbo and President General of apex Isoko social/cultural organization, the Isoko Development Union (IDU), Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu (rtd) for giving the youths direcCONTINUED ON PAGE 22

Features 22

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Isoko youths chart new course

Abuja file Dream city - FCTA introduces innovation in waste management Idu Jude, Abuja

Bishop Aruakpor takes the lead while the youth president, Comrade Victor Egbo flanked by General Omu and Ikpokpo followed

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

tions.

An officer of IDU at the event, Mr Daniel Odhomo, told our correspondent that the youths now know that to jaw-jaw is always better than to war-war. “Peace is always the precursor to progress, development and prosperity. Now, war has given way to peace, conviviality reigns supreme, and the youths are the pride of the land”, he added.

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa graced the occasion to identify with the people. Also in his entourage were former acting governor of the state, Rt Hon Sam Obi; Deputy Majority leader, House of Representative, Hon Leo Ogor; Delta state House of Assembly Deputy majority Leader, Hon Johnson Erijo and All Progressive Congress, APC House of Assembly Isoko Constituency II candidate, Hon Ferguson Onwo, Chief

Askia Ogieh, the Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area. Others dignitaries present include Hon Constantine Ikpokpo and his counterpart in Isoko North Council, Hon Emmanuel Egbabor and scores of clergy men. These all testify to the goodwill the youths now enjoy.

Chairman of Isoko South Council, Hon Ikpokpo who was elated by the conduct of the youths in his welcome address said that the event is a testimony that young men can rule and therefore commended the IDU President General, Major General Omu (rtd) for reforming the Isoko youths and giving the Victor Egbo-led youth administration the right direction to follow.

“This is the very first time I am witnessing youths in Isoko gather in the name of God and praying for leadership and direction.

“At one time, youths in Isoko were flogging our mothers and fathers, but look at what God has done to turn their minds around

for good.”

In his ministration, Rt. Rev Aruakpor admonished the youths to rededicate their lives and remain steadfast to God, saying the benefit of their new way of life would be enormous as the year goes by.

“You have chosen to turn to God, you have chosen to obey the word of God and the Lord God says in Isaiah chapter 45 that you should turn to him and today, you have obeyed this injunction.”

Aruakpor commended the leadership that called the youths together and called our fathers in the political, religious and traditional fathers to come and join you to seek the face of God. I want to tell you: you are in the right direction and you shall soon begin to reap the benefits of what you have chosen to do.”

Taking a quote from the Scripture, Uruakpor said, “There is a way that leads to destruction but you have chosen the way that CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

At one time, youths in Isoko were flogging our mothers and fathers, but look at what God has done to turn their minds around for good

Residents of the FCT will soon begin to have the features of a city of their dream, when the present administration rolls out its action plan in peoples oriented service delivery.

The Federal capital Territory Administration, recently had red to the world its administrative plans including the environmental prepaid meters on provision of adequate portable water, better waste management, which will in the same vain provide job opportunities in the FCT. Revealing this to Daily Times, Director of Economic planning, Isa Ari Mohammed, said that time has come when residents should expect continued service delivery, He said “better services will be rendered to the residents of the FCT in terms of human capacity development, education, where every child would be given an opportunity to go to school, better healthcare services being rendered through the accredited of more hospitals in the FCT” He said that soon smart cards for water would be introduced to regulate water usage, stressing that a pilot stage would begin in Gwarimpa and other major business centres of the city. He said that the administration would also work with JAICA, a japanese Corporation Agency to further work on the Mono rail project.

According to the Director Economic planning, the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, would also be strengthened as more companies would work with the Administration to provide waste management, which its pilot scheme would be run on ‘park and pay’ where the companies involved in waste management will evacuate the wastes and collect money at source.

Isa Ari Mohammed, revealed that this single innovation, would go a long way in generating income for the Administration. while plans are underway to recycle the waste generated in the FCT. Also the technological city which have been in the pipeline for long would be there to create more employment with smarter city in view which is private sector driven.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

23 Features

‘Cemetery is another booming business centre’

Some graves at the Atan Cemetery Yaba CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

especially in an accident or in some odd way. It can also be that some people need to talk to their dead person, and they always come around at night hours.

“If it is those who do not know the dead person when he or she was alive, they would come in the afternoon to confirm the name on the tomb before coming in the night. That is how they do it.” Pa Adeosun said.

On the manner of people who come to the cemetery for that purpose, the grave worker said they come from all walks of life.

“They are everyday people;

some come in groups, and I think some of them belong to some organizations, like the ones they call Fraternity or something like that.

I have seen some family members come too. You know that people are not the same; there are those who are deep in occult or some secret societies that when someone dies, they don’t just let it go without prying into the reason for it, and they choose night hours, between 1 a.m. to 2 a.m.”

Has he any idea what the living say to the dead and vice versa?

“They don’t allow anyone who is not their member to stay with them when they are talking with the dead. I keep my distance but I

observe them closely.

“When they gather round the tomb, they will invoke the spirit of the dead to give them audience. Those who use incantations speak in their dialects; some I understand, some I don’t. But the secret society people speak in some strange language and use one book I later know to be the Sixth and Seventh Book of Moses. There are lots of things they use the book to do. I think there is a section in that book that concerns dead people.

“When they invoke, the spirit of the dead will appear. It is like the dead man will ask of them, what do you want from me? Then

“When they invoke, the spirit of the dead will appear. It is like the dead man will ask of them, what do you want from me?’’

they will ask many questions at him. If the person died in an accident, that spirit will tell them whatever information they want, including how he died.”

Daily Times learnt that a group don’t just come up and say we want to talk to the dead; they have a tell tale sign that alerts graveyard workers.

“When we see people in the night, holding red, white and blue candles, we know they have come to speak to the dead.

“Some spiritual churches, those we call ‘white garment’ are easy for us to identify; they never come for any other purpose than CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

I am experiencing history being made in Isoko land - Leo Ogor CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

leads to life.

“You all remember at one time when youths, even their leaders were flogging our mothers and fathers, but you have chosen not to go that way. You have chosen to go the way of the Lord and I say greatness is waiting to greet you”, he declared.

Speaking at the occasion, the Deputy Majority Leader House of Representative, Hon Leo Ogor

who is seeking re-election to Isoko Federal Constituency, expressed delight over the event saying it was unprecedented in the history of youths’ formation in the land.

“What I am seeing today is something we have not witnessed before in Isoko land. I am so excited about it and I’m happy that we are going to leave this great nation in the hands of great men and women. While I was coming, I asked myself if actually the gathering was packaged by the

youths with all that we have been experiencing in the land.

“All these young men who used to chant war songs and say ‘we go die today’, but today, for the first time in the history of our land, I am experiencing history being made in the land where our children have decided to seek the face of God before they would take any decision and the good Lord will bless you all for this.”

Ogor assured the youths that if he is re-elected to return to the

National Assembly, he would do everything possible by way of legislation to ensure that leadership returns to the youths. “The constitution has set the age limit to become a senator or member of the House of Representatives, therefore I charge the youths to work harder so as to attain the feat one day.”

Ogor who used the occasion to reiterate the need for the Isoko people to vote for Okowa, however commended the PDP governor-

ship candidate who also graced the occasion with his entourage for identifying with the Isoko youths, saying that Okowa is one governor- in-waiting that would make Isoko people to smile again.

“Okowa is one governor that is coming that we would all smile in Isoko land. I can assure you that we (Isokos) will get more than what we were bargaining for and so let all men, women and youths stand behind him (Okowa) and I CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

Features 24

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

I know God will surely honour your prayers - Okowa CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

can assure you, he will take Isoko to the realm of amazing grace.”

Addressing the youths at the occasion, Okowa expressed delight that the Isoko youths leadership is charting a new course, not only for Isoko people, but for the entire youths in Delta State.

Okowa promised that if elected, he would partner with the youths organisations in the state to advance the cause of youths.

“I believe you are charting a new course for Isoko youths and I believe you are charting a new course for Delta youths in general, and I want to thank God for making it possible for me to be here, because what I have seen today, I have not seen it in any part

of Delta state.

“I thank God you decided to turn to God and when the youths decided to turn to God, the whole land will turn to God. You decided to pray for peace and development of your land and I know God will surely honour your prayers.”

Okowa however pleaded with the Isoko youths leadership to export the programme to other parts of the state and ensure that they sustain the programme, adding that all the youths in the state needed to be in close relationship with God. But while lamenting the scourge of youths unemployment ravaging the country, the governorship candidate said his administration, if elected, would focus on programmes that would

IDU President Genral,Major General Paul Omu (rtd) and Chairman Isoko South Council, Hon Constantine Ikpokpo leading the youths on the dance floor

create wealth and generate employment for the teeming youths of the state.

“A lot of infrastructure have been put in place, but this time around, we are going to concentrate our efforts at developing our youths and creating employment for them because no matter what you do, until you keep the youths stable, you cannot develop the land. We would work with your representatives to ensure that we take you to a new height and engage you fruitfully.” Okowa promised.

Okowa also encouraged the President of the youths: “I encourage you to take this idea to every part of Isoko land and by the special grace of God, if I’m elected, you would be one of the

first Special Assistants (SA) that I would appoint because we would like to tap into this idea.

“I know this might be your idea, but a lot of kudos must go to our father, General Omu because when you put the right person in a position, the land would be blessed and that’s what is happening today in Isoko nation.

“I was excited when I heard that General Omu is the President of IDU because I know changes would abound in the land and we are beginning to witness it and may God assist you to export this change to other Kingdoms in the state because we are looking forward to a new state of hope where we will all embrace the right thing.”

Speaking to our correspon-

dent at the end of the ceremony, Comrade Egbo gave kudos to the IDU President General who, according to him, was able to bring all the factions in Isoko youths together to form one formidable organisation after many years of bickering and unnecessary rivalry.

“We decided to carry out thanksgiving and confessional prayers to God which would be an annual event since Isoko youths have been delivered from the shackle of ‘darkness’.

“We want the light that God has given to us to be permanent, hence we decided to embark on this thanksgiving programme and it will be an annual event for us.”

The hunchback is the prime target of grave thieves CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

to do business with the dead. I have also seen those Muslim spiritualists they call alfa, witchdoctors and herbalists, they all come.

The cemetery is another kind of a business centre; any group who has business here comes freely.”

Graveyard thieves Daily Times inquired about stories of grave looters and treasure seekers who steal from caskets and from tombs.

“People have been stealing from graves; it’s not a new business. It happens when there is mass burial and it is common in burial areas that are not protected by law. Nobody bothers because dead people cannot call the police. It is the lowest form of stealing.”

Out of curiosity, our correspondent asked to know what the attraction is and the old fellow said something weird:

“The hunch back is their prime target if it is known that one of them is among those given mass burial. Everywhere in Yoruba land, the hunchback, especially the hump itself, is like gold. They say if you can get it, you can have everything. The thieves go after other parts too, but that depends on what rituals the people who send them are going to do.”

Atan cemetery’s transformation agenda is meant to deter sharp and unwholesome practices of unscrupulous elements within the cemetery while some office blocks within the cemetery have been earmarked for renovation to ease the working conditions of cemetery staff.

Apart from the physical transformation taking place in and around the cemetery, Daily Times gathered that authorities of Yaba Local Government Area have also effected administrative changes in running the affairs of

the Cemetery.

These include new board members charged with a mandate to give perfect procedural practice to sooth cemetery operators and visitors alike.

Measures have also been put in place to shore up revenue, by deterring sharp financial practices. Daily Times also gathered that the council authorities have issued a directive that all payable bills and fees be conspicuously displayed on a notice board at the cemetery and the measure has indeed raised the revenue profile of the council.

Atan Cemetery, one of the oldest in the state, was established in the early 19th century by the Kingston Congregation. It occupies 20 acres of land, and located along the University of Lagos Road, Yaba, Lagos. The Cemetery is a final home to the largest concentration of World War II era war graves in Nigeria.

Pa Adeosun

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Chronicle Today in History

25

s Cartoon from our Archives

Compiled by ‘Tunji Okegbola 1967 Be loyal to the Govt of the day “The Civil service must carry on the business of the Government to the best of its ability at all times regardless of who is in power and the civil servants’ private political views.”

This advice was contained in an address by Dr R. A.B. Dikko, permanent secretary, Northern Nigeria Ministry of Health, to the opening of the third annual conference of Northern Nigeria Rural Medical Workers’ Union in Kaduna yesterday.

Dr. Dikko stressed the Importance of all efficient and loyal civil services. Happily enough, said Dr. Dikko, Nigeria “has a civil service with a proud tradition for honesty and integrity, coupled with impartiality and loyalty to the Government of the day.

These qualities, he remarked, were worth preserving.

1965 United States warns of forthcoming bombing operations The State Department sent secret cables to U.S. ambassadors in nine friendly nations advising of forthcoming bombing operations over North Vietnam, and instructs them to inform their host governments “in strictest confidence” and to report reactions. President Lyndon Johnson wanted these governments to be aware of what he was planning to do in the upcoming bombing campaign.

Johnson made the controversial decision to undertake the sustained bombing of North Vietnam because of the deteriorating military conditions in South Vietnam. Earlier in the month, he had ordered Operation Flaming Dart in response to communist attacks on U.S. installations in South Vietnam. It was hoped that these retaliatory raids would cause the North Vietnamese to cease support of Viet Cong forces in South Vietnam, but they did not have the desired effect. Out of frustration, Johnson turned to a more extensive use of airpower.

Called Operation Rolling Thunder, the bombing campaign was designed to interdict North Vietnamese transportation routes in the southern part of North Vietnam and thereby slow infiltration

of personnel and supplies into South Vietnam. The first Rolling Thunder mission took place on March 2, 1965, when 100 U.S. Air Force and Republic of Vietnam Air Force (VNAF) planes struck an ammunition dump 100 miles southeast of Hanoi. The operation would continue, with occasional suspensions, until President Johnson, under increasing domestic political pressure, halted it on October 31, 1968.

1930 Pluto discovered Pluto, once believed to be the ninth planet, was discovered at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, by astronomer Clyde W. Tombaugh.

The existence of an unknown ninth planet was first proposed

by Percival Lowell, who theorized that wobbles in the orbits of Uranus and Neptune were caused by the gravitational pull of an unknown planetary body. Lowell calculated the approximate location of the hypothesized ninth planet and searched for more than a decade without success. However, in 1929, using the calculations of Powell and W.H. Pickering as a guide, the search for Pluto was resumed at the Lowell Observatory in Arizona. On February 18, 1930, Tombaugh discovered the tiny, distant planet by use of a new astronomic technique of photographic plates combined with a blink microscope. His finding was confirmed by several other astronomers, and on March 13, 1930--the anniversary of Lowell’s birth and of William Hershel’s discovery of Uranus--the discovery of Pluto was publicly announced.

With a surface temperature estimated at approximately -360 Fahrenheit, Pluto was appropriately given the Roman name for the god of the underworld in Greek mythology. Pluto’s average distance from the sun is nearly four billion miles, and it takes approximately 248 years to complete one orbit. It also has the most elliptical and tilted orbit of any planet and at its closest point to the sun it passes inside the orbit of Neptune, the eighth planet.

After its discovery, some astronomers questioned whether Pluto had sufficient mass to affect the orbits of Uranus and Neptune.

Daily Times February 18, 1961

1885

Twain publishes The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

1885 Twain publishes The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn On this day in 1885, Mark Twain published his famous-and famously controversial-novel The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

Twain (the pen name of Samuel Clemens) first introduced Huck Finn as the best friend of Tom Sawyer, hero of his tremendously successful novel The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1876).

Though Twain saw Huck’s story as a kind of sequel to his earlier book, the new novel was far more serious, focusing on the institution of slavery and other aspects of life in the antebellum South.

At the book’s heart is the journey of Huck and his friend Jim, a runaway slave, down the Mississippi River on a raft. Jim runs away because he is about to be sold and separated from his wife and children, and Huck goes with him to help him get to Ohio and freedom. Huck narrates the story in his distinctive voice, offering colorful descriptions of the people and places they encounter

along the way. The most striking part of the book is its satirical look at racism, religion and other social attitudes of the time. While Jim is strong, brave, generous and wise, many of the white characters are portrayed as violent, stupid or simply selfish, and the naive Huck ends up questioning the hypocritical, unjust nature of society in general.

Even in 1885, two decades after the Emancipation Proclamation and the end of the Civil War, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn landed with a splash. A month after its publication, a Concord, Massachusetts, library banned the book, calling its subject matter “tawdry” and its narrative voice “coarse” and “ignorant.”

Other libraries followed suit, beginning a controversy that continued long after Twain’s death in 1910. In the 1950s, the book came under fire from African-American groups for being racist in its portrayal of black characters, despite the fact that it was seen by many as a strong criticism of racism and slavery.

1913 Raymond Poincare becomes president of France

1913 Raymond Poincare becomes president of France Raymond Poincare, a conservative politician who had been elected president of the French Republic over the objections of Georges Clemenceau and the French Left a month earlier, took office on this day in 1913.

Known for his right-wing nationalist beliefs and his strong Catholic faith, Poincare served as France’s prime minister and foreign secretary before being elected to the presidency.

A native of France’s Lorraine region, lost to Germany in the Franco-Prussian War of 187071, he bitterly hated and feared Germany. As prime minister in the years before World War I, Poincare worked to strengthen France’s alliances with both Britain and Russia.

26

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Education Menace of exam malpractice: Any end in sight?

Stories by: Tunde Atobatele Regarded as a better performance not withstanding, the recently released results of the Nigeria’s Nov/Dec. 2014 examinations conducted by the National Examination Council NECO results, point in one inevitable direction: Now is the education direction to pave the future.

The NECO results were re-

s leased on the 4th February, 2013, by the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of the council, Professor Promise Okpalla.

According to him, “63, 445 candidates obtained the forms, out of which 55.37% passed with credits and above in Mathematics while 52.94% passed with credit and above in English languages.“ In the cumulative 30.57% recorded credits and above in the examination”, he stated.

Of concern is the number of candidates whose results were

withheld on account of malpractice, which Professor Okpalla put at 620.

His words: “A total number of 620 cases of exam malpractice were recorded and the results have been withheld, for further investigation.”

Some parents and teachers who spoke to the Daily Times traded blames as well as the government, which they stressed nowadays makes the learning CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

Malpractice in an exam

Schooling abroad, the joys, the cries …

Minister of Education Ibrahim Shekarau

Nigeria’s educational system currently ranks amongst the lowest in the world, also occupying a non-enviable position in Africa.

This has been the major reason that Nigerians freely advance when challenged on why they send their children overseas to acquire “sound” education.

What many parents fail to realize is that there are two sides to the coin: the good and the bad.

Of a truth, foreign education may offer a good platform for qualitative educational standards obtainable in the modern world but it often comes with several ugly sides that may lead to perpetual pains.

The last decade evidently brings to memory the various unpalatable experiences of Nigerians, studying overseas.

Many have been killed, maimed or afflicted. The lucky ones were deported. The often unspoken reasons for the unpalatable experiences include racial discrimination, unfriendly immigration/government policies and unfavourable weather conditions. The incident of underwear bomber, Umar Farouk

“The attitude which has become a phenomenon and somewhat a class thing amongst Nigerians is highly regrettable, no thanks to some negative educational policies being put in place by our government” Abdulmuttallab, who was engroup to bomb an American bound aircraft is a case in reference.

Dr. Ayodeji Idowu of the Political Science department, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ogun State, described the trend as regrettable. He laid the bulk of the blames on the government for instituting inhuman educational policies.

“His words: “The attitude which has become a phenom-

enon and somewhat a class thing amongst Nigerians is highly regrettable, no thanks to some negative educational policies being put in place by our government”.

According to him, the reason many Nigerian parents prefer the foreign education option for their children include admission bureaucracy, unstable policies as well as frustrations from incessant unrest by students and workers of educational institutions. Other reasons include dearth of modern equipment in schools and unstable school calendar.

The factors listed notwithstanding, foreign education option is also not without its flipside. Many Nigerians schooling abroad daily face great dangers, as they are often regarded as second-class citizens, irrespective of their intelligence levels.

Idowu further listed the flip side to include huge financial implications and high visa and school fees as international students and sometimes, the lack of cultural and moral guidance.

“As part of the albatross of the Nigerians schooling abroad are usually the huge financial CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

The joys, cries of schooling abroad

MATHEMATICS MADE SIMPLE

Section A:

33(y – x) = 1/27 – 1

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26

aspect and lack of parental control, because you observe that most of these children fall bewho ordinarily should still be ed the University don.

The attractions are, nonetheless, the perks many consider for this venture, which to them

On this, Idowu exclaimed that the standard of the edu-

“Many Nigerians schooling abroad daily face great dangers, as they are often regarded as secondclass citizens, irrespective of their intelligence levels”

essence of education.

End in sight to exam malpratice?

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26

environments less conducive and onerous.

To Mr. Kayode Adekunle, a Chartered Accountant: “Exam malpractice has been around from time immemorial and the menace has always been due to bad influence from parents, poortration”.

“Parents are mirrors to their wards, a corrupt father will influence his school children to become cheats”, he emphasised.

An encounter also with Dr. Abayomi Adedoyin, a lecturer Advanced studies in Ibadan revealed even a different dimen-

to him, examination malpractice has is a perennial problem in the Dr. Adedoyin cautioned that it is about time stakeholders coneffective solution to it, lest the albad to worse.

He said: “A national conference to discuss the menace at

stakeholders should sit at a “Examination

malpractice ciency of the teachers as well as devastates the future of those we refer to as tomorrow leaders”, he added.

ogunsholashina@gmail.com

Solution From similar triangles, QP/QT = QR/QR 10cm/5cm = x/4cm 5 * x = 10 x 4 x = (10 x 4)/5 x = 8cm QR – QT = TR QT = 5cm QR = 8cm TR = (8 – 5)cm = 3cm lTRl = 3cm (3b) If Sinx = 5/13=opp/(hyp) From Pythagoras theorem 132 = 52 + y2 169 = 25 +y2 169 – 25 =y2 144 =y2 Y =±√144 Y = 12cm = cos x-2 sin x /(2 tan x ) Cos x = adj/(hyp) = 12/13 Tan x = opp/adj = 5/12 =(12/13-2×5/13)/(2×5/12) =(12/13-10/13)/(10/12) =((12-10)/13)/(10/12) =2/13÷10/12 =2/13×12/10 =12/65

33(y – x) = (33)-1

33(y – x) = 3 – 3 Since the base is equal, equate their powers 3(y – x) = – 3 3y – 3x = – 3 ______________ (ii) Solving equations (i) and (ii) simultaneously 3 x [5x – 4y = 6] _______________ (i) 4 x [3x – 3y = 3] _______________ (ii) 15x – 12y = 18 ________________ (iii) _ [12x – 12y = 12] _______________ (iv) Equation (iii) – (iv) 15x – 12x – 12y – (–12y) = 18 – 12 15x – 12x – 12y + 12y = 18 – 12 3x = 6 X = 6/3 X=2 Put X = 2 into equation (i) 5x – 4y = 6 5(2) – 4y = 6 10 – 4y =6 10 – 6 = 4y 4 = 4y 4y = 4 Y=4 4 Y = 1 x = 2, y = 1 (2, 1)

4 (a)

Without using table or calculator, evaluate: log_10 {75/10}-2 log_10 { 5/9}+ log_10 { 100/243}

(b) Given that X = {x: 10≤x≤15} and Y = {even numbers <18} are subsets of U = {10, 11, 12…20} find: (i) X Y; (ii) n( X1 Y).

Solution: (a) log_10 {75/10}-log_10 {5/9}²+ log_10 { 100/243} = log_10 {75/10}- log_10 { 5x5/9x9}+ log_10 { 100/243} = log_10 75/10 X 100/(243 ) ÷5x5/9x9

(2) A man has a wife and 6 children and his total income in a year was GH¢850. He was given the following tax free allowances.

Personal GH¢ 120; Wife GH¢ 30; Children GH¢ 25 per child, for a maximum of 4 children Medical GH¢ 40 The rest was taxed as follows: First GH¢ 200 at 10% Next GH¢ 200 at 15% Next GH¢ 200 at 20% Remainder at 25% Calculate his: (a) Taxable income; (b) Monthly tax SOLUTION: Tax free amount Personal GH¢ Wife GH¢ Children GH¢ 4 x 25 = 100 Medical GH¢

By Ogunshola Shina Samuel

(3) In the diagram, PQ and QR are straight lines, lPSl = 6cm, lQSl = 4cm, lQTl = 5cm and QTS = QTS = RPQ. Calculate lTRl. (b) If sin x = 5/13, 0o < x < 90o, evaluate without tables or calculator, (cos x- 2sinx)/(2 tan x )

1a) Factorize completely: m2–2mn + n2–9r2. b) Solve simultaneously, the equations: 5x – 4y = 6 3 3(y – x) = 1/27 Solution: (a) m2 – 2mn + n2 – 9r2 m2 – 2mn + n2 = (m – n)2 (m – n)2 – 9r2 (m – n)2 – (3r)2 If m – n = a; 3r = b a2 – b2 = (a + b) (a –b) (m – n)2 – (3r)2 = (m – n + 3r) (m – n – 3r) Solve simultaneously, the equations: 5x – 4y = 6 33 (y – x) = 1/27 5x – 4y = 6 ______________ (i)

students abroad

27 Education

120 30 40

Taxable income = 850 – 290 = GH¢560 First GH¢ 200 at = GH¢ 560:00 (560 – 200) = = GH¢ (360) Next GH¢ 200 at 15% = x GH¢ 200 GH¢ = 30 360 – 200 = GH¢ 160 Tax = GH¢ (20 + 30) = GH¢ = 50 Next GH¢ 200 = 20% = = GH¢ 32 = GH¢ (50 + 32) = GH¢ (82) (a) His taxable income = GH¢ 560:00 (b) Monthly tax = = GH¢ 6.833

290

= log_10 75/ (10@1) X (10@100)/(243 ) X 9x9/ (5x5@) = log_10 10 =1 4 (b) X= {x:10≤x<15} X= {10,11,12,13,14} Y= {even numbers <18} Y= {10,12,14,16} U= {10,11,12,…20} U= {10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20} 4b (i) x Y= {10,12,14} (ii) x1 = {15,16,17,18,19,20} Y = {10,12,14,16,} 4b(ii) n (X1 Y)=n {16}=1 Hence, cardinality= 1

28

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Business Times

s

BPE boss lists benefits of NIGCOMSAT privatisation Charles Okonji The Director-General, Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Mr. Benjamin Dikki, has said privatising the Nigeria Communication Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) is key to improving the country’s telecommunication technology sector.

This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday in Abuja by the bureau’s Acting Head, Public Communications, Mr. Alex Okoh.

The statement said Dikki made the comment when the management team of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) paid him a visit.

He said the need to privatise NIGCOMSAT was borne out of the need to inject entrepreneurial spirit into the company and make it more commercially viable. ``Information and Communications Technology that encompasses satellite systems and telecommunications is key to the growth of any nation. ``In privatising NIGCOMSAT, the security of the nation would not be compromised. The

Bureau would strategise and evaluate how much private sector participation would be required in the company to drive growth,” he said.

Dikki said BPE would rely on informed guidance from key stakeholders to determine the model of privatisation to be recommended to the National Council on Privatisation for adoption.

He said that in executing the transaction, a Joint Project Delivery Team (PDT), comprising the BPE, the Ministry of Communication Technology, NASRDA and other key stakeholders would be set up.

Earlier, the Director-General of NASRDA, Prof. Seidu Mohammed, said the purpose of the visit was to seek more clarification on the planned privatisation of the NIGCOMSAT. Mohammed explained that there was need for communication satellite for all Nigerians as it was vital for not only telecommunications but for earth characterisation to support the agricultural sector of the country.

According to the statement, Mohammed said that any plan to improve funding of science and technology in the country is appreciated.

Naira sells at N210, N213 to USD at BDCs, black market Ugochukwu Onyeocha The Naira on Monday lost N2 to the dollar to sell at N210 at the Bureau De Change (BDCs) segment of the official market.

It also depreciated by N4 at the black market, selling at N213 to the dollar.

A dealer, who preferred anonymity, said that the depreciation might not be unconnected with the closure of trading at the interbank market by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The dealer also said that the CBN’s decision, which was meant to control speculations in the market, might be responsible for the depreciation.

CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, had earlier said that only BDCs and banks with genuine demand for foreign exchange would get forex allocation.

Emefiele, CBN governor

Lawyers laud CAC’s on-line registration portal

Dikki, DG, BPE

Charles Okonji

NB, IFDC, Psaltry sign cassava value chain MoU Charles Okonji

Vervelde, NB MD

Nigerian Breweries (NB) Plc., the International Fertiliser Development Centre (IFDC) and Psaltry International Company Ltd., on Monday, signed agreement to optimise national cassava value chain and improve agribusiness for smallholder farmers.

Psaltry International Company Ltd is a Nigerian cassava processing company.

The partnership is part of NB’s efforts toward sustainable clusters in agribusiness through learning in entrepreneurship project in Nigeria.

NB in a statement in Lagos stressed that the collaboration

targeted improved output of small holder farmers, economic development and the promotion of inclusive growth in Africa.

It said the partnership would enhance farmers’ productivity and increase supply of high-quality cassava roots to Psaltry. Over 2,000 direct farmers, it said, were expected to benefit from the project within the next three years.

The company will in turn provide industrial quality cassava starch for Nigerian Breweries to extract maltose syrup used in brewing, the statement said.

It quoted Mr. Nicolaas Vervelde, managing director of NB Plc., as saying that ``as an operating

company of HEINEKEN, we have a long standing commitment to support local economic development, and promote inclusive growth by sourcing agricultural raw materials from local SME’s, and utilising it in our operations. ``Through our partnership with Psaltry and IFDC, we are taking a big step towards further realising this ambition with cassava,” he assured.

According to the statement, the new agreement succeeds the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the partners in June 2014, which formed part of the 2SCALE programme, a Dutchfunded initiative.

Legal practitioners on Monday in Abuja lauded the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for activating an on-line portal that has complemented the pace and ease of business registrations.

Mr. Dauda Abdullahi, a customer of the commission, said the new portal would facilitate easy registration of business names with the CAC. According to Abdullahi, with the new system, an individual can register a business within 20 minutes, as against the previous method that took weeks.

He said the improved system would facilitate the easy registration of businesses by customers of the CAC, noting that he could now register more companies for his clients.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Group urges INEC to address challenges of PVCs distribution The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to quickly address the anomalies recorded in the distribution of the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) across the country.

The non-governmental organisation made the call in a statement signed by its National Co-ordinator, Mr. Emmanuel Onwubiko, in Abuja.

HURIWA said it was important INEC did this because it had been accused of favouring the northern part of the country in the distributions of the PVCs. It demanded a full investigation into the exercise, following allegations raised by a Second Republic governor of the old Kaduna State, Alhaji Balarabe Musa.

Musa had alleged that the current INEC leadership was scheming out states suspected of be the strong support base of one of the presidential candidates in the distribution of the PVCs. ``Forcing the electoral panel to shift election dates on unclear grounds, on the basis that the Armed Forces would not provide security for the elections if it proceeded on February 14, was uncalled for,’’ the group said.

It added that a shift in the election timeline amounted to high treason. ``The allegations should not be swept under the carpet because of the far-reaching adverse implications to larger goals and objectives of building sustainable democracy and rule of law,’’ HURIWA said in the statement.

While faulting the INEC leadership, the group then urged President Goodluck Jonathan to call the Service Chiefs to order.

29 Labour

NIPOST partners NIGCOMSAT, others on financial inclusion

Uduma, President, NIRA

Botched NLC election: Nted calls for dismissal, prosecution of culprits Stories by Joy Ekeke The President-General, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Mr. Emmanuel Nted, has called for the dismissal and prosecution of those involved in scuttling the February 12, 2015 National Executive Council (NEC) election of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

Nted said this in a statement on Monday in Lagos, adding that the NLC should conduct a thorough investigation and punish all those involved in truncating the election.

He said the ``strange and sad situation’’ had resulted into ``a big embarrassment to the union’’, and must not be allowed to go unpunished. ``We call for thorough investigation into this matter. Those

responsible for the printing of those ballot papers must not go unpunished. ``They should be brought to book and they must be made to face severe sanctions. ``If they are secretariat staff, they should be dismissed and prosecuted. If they are labour leaders, they should be expelled from NLC for giving labour a bad name,’’ he added.

The maritime workers leader, who is also NLC vice president, said that the incident may have been due to desperation for power.

He said such sanctions were necessary to protect the integrity of the labour movement which had served as watchdog of the society, ``supporting the oppressed and upholding truth and justice.’’

NLC urges labour unions to encourage members to collect PVCs The Chairman, Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in Anambra State, Mr. Patrick Obianyo, has called on the leadership of various labour unions in the country to encourage members to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Obianyo told newsmen in Awka, the state capital, that the call was imperative because of the poor response by the electorate in the state to the collection of their PVCs. “We do not need to waste the golden opportunity to make our lives better by voting in the right candidates into various electives

posts.

“We, as citizens of the country should try to live a worthy life of holding our civic duty high by participating in national exercise like election,” he said Obianyo said that electing credible and committed candidates would alleviate the plights of the civil servants in the state and put smiles on their faces.

He urged all civil servants in the state to make a lasting and worthy sacrifice by going out to their wards to pick up their PVCs and ensure that they cast their votes on election dates.

Nigerian Post Office (NIPOST) has entered into collaborations with Nigeria Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT), One Network and First Bank of Nigeria to launch projects aimed at promoting financial inclusion in the country.

Commenting on the agreement, Mallam Ibrahim Mori Baba, Postmaster General said “we are re-inventing NIPOST through collaborations with different stakeholders from the public and private sectors. The two projects we are launching today are products of such collaborations. The first one, ‘Promoting Financial Inclusion and Opportunities through KA-BAND Utilization’ is a partnership with our sister parastatal, NIGCOMSAT and One Network”.

He noted that One Network Agent Management Limited is meant to empower NIPOST with connectivity in order to extend

financial and digital services and access to rural and underserved areas, hence One Network is collaborating with NIPOST in broadening and deepening financial services to the citizens, especially in underserved areas.

The second project is ‘the Firstmonie Mobile payment scheme, owned by First Bank, which marks the extension of the firstmonie scheme to the post office counters and making customers of Firstmonie now to have access to transactions at post office.

NIGCOMSAT is providing connectivity to rural post office with this project, which will enable NIPOST to extend its electronic money order service, called Postcash to the rural areas.

NIPOST will use this project to key into Transformation Agenda of the present administration by providing complete digital and financial inclusion to the populace.

Union begs Oshiomhole, veteran unionists to settle NLC crisis Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole and veteran unionists were on Monday urged by the National Union of Civil Engineering Construction, Furniture and Wood Workers (NUCECFWW) to wade into the election crisis rocking the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

President General of the union, Mr. Amechi Asugwuni, said intervention of veteran unionists like Gov. Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, who was former president of NLC, would forestall further crisis in the union.

Asugwuni, who spoke at a press conference in Lagos, said that it had become necessary for the industrial unions and veterans to support NLC to overcome its current challenges.

NLC 11th National Delegates Conference held between Febru-

ary 8 and February 11 in Abuja was marred by fracas which disrupted the process and prevented the election of a new national leadership.

Asugwuni pleaded with Oshiomhole and other veteran trade unions not to abandonment the trade union movement at this critical period. ``We call on all industrial unions, veterans and even our dear comrade and governor of Edo, Adams Oshiomhole to actively and positively support the call to conclude the conference within the life span of the current regime. ``We urge the incumbent President of NLC, Comrade Omar Abdulwahed to endeavour to resist any influence or move that will negate the constitution or rule of the congress.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Abdulwaheed Omar

Maritime 30

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Maersk affirms US$1.5bn commitment to Ghana port The Maersk Group has reaffirmed its commitment to support the expansion of Ghana’s Port of Tema to the tune of US$1.5 billion, according to media reports out of the West African country.

According to the Spy Ghana daily news site, this affirmation came from the CEO of the Maersk Group, Nils Smedegaard Andersen, during a visit to Ghana last week.

He reportedly also assured government that his company would contribute its quota in the US$6 billion oil exploration work to be undertaken by Italian firm Eni Exploration.

Anderson, CEO, Maersk

The Maersk Group’s subsidiary, APM Terminals, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the government of Ghana in November last year to expand the Tema Port.

Lagos, terminal

Terminals hit with low activities NIMAREX 2015 will be a success, says Adedoyin as import volume drops Stories by Funmi Coker The shift in dates for the 2015 general election and the depreciating value of the Nigerian currency have combined as factors against international trade, especially importation of consumer goods into the country.

This revelation came to the fore last week when the Area Controller, Lilypond Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller Mustapha Atiku, held his maiden press conference.

Speaking at the event, Commercial Officer, Lilypond Container Terminal, Mr. Kayode Daniels, said that the low level of activities was not peculiar to Lilypond but also prevalent at

other terminals, including the nation’s premiere port, the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa.

He attributed the low business activities to a drop in volume of imported cargo into the country.

“Maersk Line’s volume is 30 percent less than what they did in 2014. Market is slow; market is stagnant. We have done extensive market research with our customers and we find out that market is not moving.

“It is slow. Their (importers) complaint is that their warehouses are still stocked and there was no way they could import.

“Moreso, people are not spending and, when people don’t spend, it will be difficult to bring in imports. So these are

the challenges that are leading to the drop in volume,” he said.

He assured that the terminal has identified some customers who could help in boosting cargo volume so that the command will realize its revenue target.

The Command’s Customs Area Controller, on his part, said that the terminal had been hard hit as very few containers are now being stemmed to the facility.

He said the year started on a shaky note as the command’s revenue has taken a plunge.

Atiku said out of a monthly target of N1.9billion, the command has been able to collect only N852 million in January and has so far realised N198 million in February.

WSC urges shippers to prepare for new regulation The World Shipping Council (WSC) has called all parties involved in the international transportation of maritime containers to ensure that they are prepared to meet the new SOLAS regulatory requirement before the implementation date arrives.

At the end of 2014, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) adopted amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS) that will require every packed export container to have a verified container weight as a condition for loading aboard a vessel. This requirement will become legally

binding on July 1, 2016.

“There is more than a year to get ready. That time should not be wasted. All parties should use the time that is available to understand what will be required of them, and to prepare to be able to meet those requirements before July 1, 2016,” the council said.

In addition, WSC has been joined by the European Shippers Council, the European freight forwarders’ association (CLECAT) and the European Community Shipowners Association (ECSA) in opposing the EU Commission’s proposal to require the identity of the buy-

er and seller of goods being imported into the EU to be a part of a carrier’s ENS filing.

Ron Widdows, WSC Chairman

Chairman, Planning Committee of the 5th edition of the annual Nigeria Maritime Expo, tagged NIMAREX 2015, Prince Ayo Adedoyin, has assured the oil and gas, shipping and trading communities of a most rewarding outing at this year’s event.

Adedoyin assured that the suspension of retired Navy Captain Niyi Labinjo, as President of the Nigerian Ship-owners Association (NISA), would not have any adverse effect on NIMAREX 2015.

“NIMAREX is not NISA’s baby anymore. It has grown and there are other institutions involved in organising NIMAREX, which includes Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and even some individuals who are not members of NISA, but who are in the industry, support us.

“NIMAREX is now a platform and a voice for shipping industry practitioners and operators to come together in order to work for the advancement of the

CMA CGM/Delmas will realign their Europe (via TangierMed)-West Africa network with three new services (Euraf3, Euraf4 and Euraf5) replacing four existing ones, PC North, PC Centre, PC Sud and Angola Shuttle, Dynamar BV reports.

Although there will be some changes in the ports served such as Buchanan (Liberia) and San Pedro (Cote d’Ivoire), added at the seemingly unrelated expense of Nouadhibou (Mauritania), Takoradi (Ghana) and

industry,” Adedoyin said.

Adedoyin also assured stakeholders that NIMAREX would get the needed support from relevant government agencies because it is an event created to promote the nation’s maritime industry.

He said it was wrong to equate Labinjo to NISA because “Captain Labinjo is a member of the association and won the election to become the President, so whatever he does with his own personal business enterprise is his own problem, so long as it is not in the name of NISA.

Adedoyin, NIMAREX planning committee chairman

CMA CGM modifies Europe-West Africa service Onne (Nigeria), the overall differences are limited.

The new services and their number and capacity of ships deployed are Euraf3: 4x 1,600 TEU – Euraf4: 7x 2,000 TEU – Euraf5: 7x 2,200 TEU.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

31 Capital market

Adesola Akindele

CBN EXCHANGE RATES AS AT 13th February 2015 Currency

Buying(NGN)

Central (NGN)

Selling(NGN)

US DOLLAR

167

167.5

168

POUNDS STERLING

256.9629

257.7323

258.5016

EURO

190.6305

191.2013

191.772

SWISS FRANC

179.6472

180.185

180.7229

YEN

1.4047

1.4089

1.4131

CFA

0.2698

0.2798

0.2898

Market Capitalization and All Shares Index Trend for Equities Day

Market Capitalization (N)

Index value

Tuesday 10/02/2015

9,718,189,103,308.73

29,125.69

Wednesday 11/02/2015

9,583,247,950,654.20

28,721.27

Thursday 12/02/2015

9,321,157,313,972.05

27,935.77

Friday 13/02/2015

9,204,202,190,258.88

27,585.26

Monday 16/02/2015

9,252,040,883,990.79

27,728.63

Ecobank signs $50m senior unsecured loan facility Ecobank Transnational Incorporated has notified The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), that the Company has signed a one-year senior unsecured loan facility of USD 50 million arranged

by Deutsche Bank AG. The facility will be used for general corporate purposes.

ETI successfully raised a USD 200 million loan facility from Deutsche

Bank in December 2014.

This new USD 50 million loan facility brings total funding arranged

by Deutsche Bank to $250 million. Altogether, in the last six months, Ecobank has raised approximately USD 1 billion in combined equity and debt capital for its parent company and its businesses in Nigeria, the largest of the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s affiliates.

Essien, Eco Bank, MD/CEO

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Politics

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Features

L7 Nutrition Nutrition

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday February 18, 2015

23 Features

Uche Ekwunife

How to eat

pregnant

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015

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VOL. 1. NO.48

(found in animal sources, such as liver, milk, and eggs) can be dangerous, carotenoids are a different type. They’re converted to vitamin A only as needed, so there’s no need to restrict your consumption of vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables.

of healthy fruits and vegetables in the womb, you’ll increase the chance that your baby will recognise and accept those flavours later on.

https://plus.google.com/+DailytimesNgr/posts

Popcorn and other whole grains Yes, you read that right.

Popcorn is a whole grain. Whole grains are important in pregnancy because they’re high in fibre and nutrients, including vitamin E, selenium, and phytonutrients (plant compounds that protect cells). I am not talking about that “butter-laden popcorn” you get at the movies, the majority of the nutritional value is eclipsed by unhealthy fats and salt. I mean a healthy non-sugar popcorn. But don’t stop at popcorn: There are lots of other whole grains out there.

Groundnuts/ Walnuts Walnuts are one of the richest sources of plant-based Omega-3.

A handful of walnuts is a great choice for an on-the-run snack or an addition to a salad.

Walnuts are also a good source of protein and fibre.

Groundnuts help to reduce the nausea that comes with pregnancy.

dailytimesng The goal of a pregnant woman eating for two is to provide everything for her baby without sacrificing her own health or nutrition. Eating for two can be nerve-wracking, especially, with so much conflicting information.

Is it important to eat enough fish, or does it contain too much mercury? Do you need meat for protein, or is it too fatty? Are eggs okay, or do they have too much cholesterol? Here are the details for you.

a balanced diet low in saturated fat, But if cholesterol is a concern for you, substitute egg whites for whole eggs.”

Okra soup This is another soup you should try when expecting.

It’s great for pregnant women because it contains folic acid, which is needed for the formation of the neural tube of the foetus.

Beans Beans contain the most fibre and protein of all the vegetables.

When you’re pregnant, your gastrointestinal tract slows down, putting you at risk for constipation and hemorrhoids.

Fiber can help prevent and relieve these problems. In addition, food that contains fibre tends to be rich in nutrients. This is certainly true of beans, which are good sources of iron, folate, calcium, and zinc.

Dark green, leafy vegetables Pumpkin leaves, Spinach, water leaves and other green leafy vegetables are loaded with vitamins and nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as the all-important foliate. An expectant mother should aim for five portions of fruit and/or vegetables per day.

Yogurt I don’t mean that hawked on the streets.

You will get a good yogurt from a good supermarket or food store. Yogurt is a great source of calcium, which is vital in a pregnancy diet. If you don’t take in enough calcium, the limited amount you have, will go to your baby, depleting the calcium in your bones. Calcium will help keep your own bones intact while laying down a healthy skeleton for your baby.”

Colorful fruits and veggies Eating plenty of green, red, orange, yellow, purple, and white fruits and vegetables ensures that you and your baby get a variety of nutrients. During the later stages of pregnancy, the baby ‘tastes’ the foods you eat through the amniotic fluid, so if you expose your baby to a variety

Avocado Avocado is high in vitamins, such as folic acid, which are good for pregnant women as it is essential in the development of the nervous system and brain of the baby. It also has vitamin C, potassium and vitamin B6 that aids in the growth of the baby’s brain and tissues.

EKWUNIFE

Member, representing Aniocha/Njikoka /Dunkofia Federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Mrs. Uche Ekwunife spoke with DORIS NNABUENYI at her campaign office in Awka, Anambra state disclosing why her opponent, Chief Victor Umeh and his campaign materials are being attacked by hoodlums; why she left All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and her stand on the confusion in her party over authentic candidates in the state

Politics

among others. Excerpts:

You have spent two terms at the House of Representatives, how has the journey been?

It has been a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. I say challenges because our nation has gone through some trying moments in the last couple of years and as you know, we represent the people so whatever happens to our people affects us, especially in the discharge of our responsibilities as lawmakers. It

also presented us with opportunities on the other hand, because the diverse challenges thrown up allow us to look critically into our extant laws and see how we can amend relevant sections to fit into the realities of our time.

Other laws that are obviously obsolete are also repealed and reenacted.

Debates on the floor of the 6th and 7th Assembly have been very robust and I am glad to be a part of the process in the last eight

‘How Kwankwaso diverted council business centre’ elephant meat at L7 booming business centre’ P 17 funds’ TAKAI birthday party 23 CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

KwankwasoP13 committed rape of democracy

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Umeh is Anger as Mugabe settling personal set to serve scores

‘Cemetery is ‘Cemetery is booming another How to eat when when pregnant another Judith Frank-Edet

s

Some graves at the Atan Cemetery Yaba

some come in groups, and I think some of them belong to some orespecially in an accident or in ganizations, like the ones they call some odd way. It can also be that Fraternity or something like that. some people need to talk to their I have seen some family members dead person, and they always come too. You know that people come around at night hours. are not the same; there are those “If it is those who do not know who are deep in occult or some sethe dead person when he or she cret societies that when someone was alive, they would come in the dies, they don’t just let it go withafternoon to confirm the name out prying into the reason for it, on the tomb before coming in the and they choose night hours, benight. That is how they do it.” Pa 1 a.m. to 2 a.m.”

This include all spreading fats (such as butter), oils, saladtween dressings, Adeosun said. he any idea what the living cream, chocolate, crisps, biscuits, pastries, ice cream, cake, fizzyHas drinks, Oncaffeine the manner of people who say to the dead and vice versa?

Alcohol and come to the cemetery for that pur“They don’t allow anyone who pose, the grave worker said they is not their member to stay with come from all walks of life. them when they are talking with “They are everyday people; the dead. I keep my distance but I

observe them closely.

“When they gather round the tomb, they will invoke the spirit of the dead to give them audience. Those who use incantations speak in their dialects; some I understand, some I don’t. But the secret society people speak in some strange language and use one book I later know to be the Sixth and Seventh Book of Moses. There are lots of things they use the book to do. I think there is a section in that book that concerns dead people.

“When they invoke, the spirit of the dead will appear. It is like the dead man will ask of them, what do you want from me? Then

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

Avoid junk foods

Malam Salihu Muhammad of federal allocation while divertSagir Takai is the Peoples ing the funds and described it as a Democratic Party (PDP) rape of democracy. Excerpts: Governorship Candidate for Kano State in the forthcoming elections.

What actually motivated He contested against Governor you into politics and when did Rabi`u Musa Kwankwaso in 2011 you join? under the platform of the defunct In the village, Takai, where I All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) come from, we have been with and lost. With the emergence of our people and we understand All Progressives Congress (APC), their feelings and problems he declined to join the mega party, militating against their developrather he preferred to work with ments. We need to make them his former boss, Malam Ibra- have the impact of development him Shekarau now Minister of by getting involved in politics Education. In this interview withthey andwill bringing them questions closer to ask many MOMOH ALEX OGWEMOH in the corridor of powers. Again,

have a say in the government of the day.

Our people have suffered and have been humiliated so much.

Paying their taxes even with the little they realised from their farm produce without getting the dividends of tax- payers in return. When I looked at all this, I decided to come into politics in order to reach out to them and this was in 1997.

Which area do you intends to give priority if voted into power, come April 2015? at Anything that involves development in the society comprises him. If the person died in an acKano, he bares his mind on his education is another bottleneck human and physical, in order to cident, that spirit will tell them preparedness to complete the proj- that contributed to their back- bring peace without rancor and information they want, ects abandoned by the Kwank-whatever wardness, so I felt the only way unrest of the people who voted he died.” waso administration if votedincluding we couldhow eradicate this canker- for you, one need to balance the into office in April. He condemned Daily wormsTimes is either by scholarships equation but with little more atlearnt that a group Governor Kwankwaso for starv-don’t or sponsorship in- we just comeand up getting and say CONTINUED ON PAGE 19 ing local governments in the state volved in politics where we can

“When they invoke, the spirit of the dead will appear. It is like the dead man will ask of them, what do you want from me?’’ Obasanjo

want to talk to the dead; they have a tell tale sign that alerts graveyard workers.

Former Presidential candidate of the “When we see people in the Progressives Action Council night, holding red, white and blue (PAC), Dr. Olapade Agoro has candles, we know they have come berated former President to speak to the dead.

Olusegun Obasanjo for saying “Some spiritual churches, that Jonathan is afraid that Buhari will jail him if he wins those we call ‘white garment’ are the forthcoming elections. easy for us to identify; they never In a statement, he said the come for any other purpose than

Agoro raps Obasanjo over attack on Jonathan

Kwankwaso

statement credited to Obasanjo is not only a “condemnable vituperation of an hallucinating elder Statesman but one doing no good to the cause of General Muhammadu Buhari as well as to the cause of democracy and the rule of law”.

He described Obasanjo as

an unrepentant double dealer in the matter of the North and South dichotomy, saying the former President should be better informed that in a democracy governed by the rule of law, the President lacks the power to jail anybody

Politicians and their ways Eggs It’s amazing what you get in one egg. Eggs contain much quality protein, which is essential for pregnancy. Your baby’s cells are growing at an exponential rate, and every cell is made of protein, plus, as a pregnant woman, you have your own protein needs. Eggs are also rich in choline, which promotes your baby’s overall growth and brain health, while helping prevent neural tube defects. So start thinking eggs. According to food nutritionist, Elizabeth Ward, “Healthy women with normal blood cholesterol can consume one to two eggs a day as part of

Sweet potatoes Sweet potatoes get their colour from carotenoids, plant pigments that are converted to vitamin A in our bodies. Although, consuming too much “preformed” vitamin A

Sunny Ikhioya

Men follow their sentiments and their selfinterests, but it pleases them to imagine that they follow reason

ÎÎÎThat

politics is the branch of social science that deals with the allocation of power to a few individuals, to use as they deem fit, on behalf of the majority of the people is no longer news. What is baffling is how these few have perfected the art of circulating power amongst themselves. Vilfredo Pareto, the French born Italian philosopher termed it ‘the circulation of the elites’. They are found everywhere; in the military and para-military, business, civil service and yes, governance.

Once in a while, people of the lower cadre smug-

sentiments and their selfinterests, but it pleases them to imagine that they follow reason. And so they look for, and always find some theory which, a posteriori, makes their actions appear to be logical. If that theory could be demolished scientifically, the only result would be that another theory would be substituted for the first one, and for the same purpose”.

As a result, in every action of man, there is a logical explanation to it, especially for those in the disciplines of explaining human behaviour. There is no generally accepted path on how human beings should govern themselves and this has given the politicians excuses to take the people for granted. They are the same all over the world. Ambrose Bierce says: “Politics: A strife of interests masquerading as a contest of principles. The conductor of public affairs for private advantage”.

Still in this line, Wiston Churchill says: “Politics is not a game, it is an ear-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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I am experiencing history being made in Isoko land - Leo Ogor CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

gle or work themselves in there and when they get there, they help to perpetuate the status quo. That is why, in a country like Nigeria, almost everyone who has found himself in position of leadership is from modest background.

These are individuals whose town unions or government have helped to pay their way through schools. Most of them also took over leadership positions from the white men.

One begins to wonder why, in spite of their personal experiences and backgrounds, the ordinary folks have been unable to enjoy the benefits of their leadership? The answer is in Pareto’s circulation of the elites theory. Simply stated: it implies that the outcome of a group activity is majorly determined by a small few in the group, usually in the ratio of twenty to eighty (20:80) percent.

It can be interpreted into various fields of human endeavour and studies and, if I am to relate it to the Nigerian political situation, the few controlling the flow of governance are not even up to one percent. And, usually, their interest supersedes all other interests, including that of the nation. That is why, an Olusegun Obasanjo for example, will pick Umaru Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan to become president and vice of the country, despite their initial reluctance to contest for the presidency.

In real life, power is in the hands of these elite.

According to Vilfredo Pareto: “Men follow their

17

leads to life.

“You all remember at one time when youths, even their leaders were flogging our mothers and fathers, but you have chosen not to go that way. You have chosen to go the way of the Lord and I say greatness is waiting to greet you”, he declared.

Speaking at the occasion, the Deputy Majority Leader House of Representative, Hon Leo Ogor

who is seeking re-election to Isoko Federal Constituency, expressed delight over the event saying it was unprecedented in the history of youths’ formation in the land.

“What I am seeing today is something we have not witnessed before in Isoko land. I am so excited about it and I’m happy that we are going to leave this great nation in the hands of great men and women. While I was coming, I asked myself if actually the gathering was packaged by the

nest business”.

I am referring to all of these quotes, to bring the reader’s attention to the behavioural patterns of politicians, as one who should not be trusted. For example Dung Larson says: “instead of giving a politician the keys to the city, it might be better to change the locks”.

Even Ronald Reagan said this of politics: “It has been said that politics is the second oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a striking resemblance to the first”.

Another quote credited to Aesop, has this to say: “We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office”.

If we understand the ways of politicians, we would not be fighting ourselves unnecessarily. According to Cal Thomas: “one of the reasons people hate politics is that truth is rarely a politician’s objective, election and power are”. When one examines closely the spate of accusations and counter-accusations from

youths with all that we have been experiencing in the land.

“All these young men who used to chant war songs and say ‘we go die today’, but today, for the first time in the history of our land, I am experiencing history being made in the land where our children have decided to seek the face of God before they would take any decision and the good Lord will bless you all for this.”

Ogor assured the youths that if he is re-elected to return to the

National Assembly, he would do everything possible by way of legislation to ensure that leadership returns to the youths. “The constitution has set the age limit to become a senator or member of the House of Representatives, therefore I charge the youths to work harder so as to attain the feat one day.”

Ogor who used the occasion to reiterate the need for the Isoko people to vote for Okowa, however commended the PDP governor-

ship candidate who also graced the occasion with his entourage for identifying with the Isoko youths, saying that Okowa is one governor- in-waiting that would make Isoko people to smile again.

“Okowa is one governor that is coming that we would all smile in Isoko land. I can assure you that we (Isokos) will get more than what we were bargaining for and so let all men, women and youths stand behind him (Okowa) and I

the PDP and APC, one demands an explanation for all the trouble? But there’ is none forthcoming. This is what Ross Perot, former United States independent presidential candidate has to say: “War has rules, mud wrestling has rules- Politics has no rules”, and Bernard Barunch goes further: “Vote for the man who promises least; he will be least disappointing”. Now this from George Mcdonald: “It is not in the nature of politics that the best man should be elected. The best men do not want to govern their fellow man”.

You can now see why in this election campaigns, none of them is telling us how they intend to carry out the change we so much desire. In this moment of drop in the federation’s revenue, insecurity, impositions and oppression of all types, they are not telling us how they will execute these changes. That is why none of them is addressing the restructuring of the federation to reflect its true position,

CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

because they are afraid, they will hurt some people’s feelings. That is why they are not addressing the imposition of democratic structures that will make the people live true to standards. Institutionalised structures, not person focussed structures but enduring structures that will outlive all of us and our great grandchildren after us. That is the way of politicians, they fear to take the right actions because it will affect their electoral fortunes.

That is why Gore Vidal says: “By the time a man gets to be president material, he’s been bought ten times over”. That is why extreme conservatives and progressives are now one. To quote Mark Twain “Principles have no real force except when one is well fed”. But are grateful to God, there are very few exceptions. Charles de Gaulle said: “In politics, it is necessary either to betray one’s country or the electorate. I prefer to betray the electorate”.

When shall we have our own De Gaulle?

W E AT H E R F O R E C A S T F O R W E D N E S D AY 1 8 - 0 2 - 2 0 1 5 GUSAU

ILORIN

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34 |24 °C

99 |68 °F

98 |76 °F

96 |65 °F

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94 |76 °F

0% Chance

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Precipitation

Precipitation

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Life&

TIMES Tuesday, February 18, 2015

Between AY and pirates L4

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Nollywoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldies that rocked our world!

L3

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Beverly Naya in new TV series

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The man with the longest wrapper L5

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Buzz Byte L2

Iyanya

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday February 18, 2015

embarrassed over Instagram insult

Opeoluwani Akintayo Just when he thought girls would be tumbling over each other, after he shared a sexy photo of himself, the opposite turned out to be the case.

In fact, his female fans weren’t, this time, loyal to him.

Iyanya had shared a photo of himself rocking his newly groomed beard while standing by the window, and, instead, of the usual words of admiration, his female fans lashed out at him, calling him all sorts of unprintable names, including “a dwarf”.

Seriously? Does he truly look like Tyrion Lannister of Game of

Thrones?

Life & Times got in touch with someone in Iyanya’s camp, who confirmed that the Kukere master didn’t find the insults funny, as he had vouched to keep off Instagram for a while.

We even heard that he might soon do something drastic about his new image as a result of the tongue lashes he received, maybe reduce his body building exercises this time.

When Life & Times pressed further to know the identity of the girls who tongue-lashed Iyanya, another source revealed that some of the girls are “hurting” because Iyanya refused to give them special attention, which they thought they deserved.

Beverly Naya, others star in new TV series

Mutiat Alli

Tinsel star actress, Beverly Naya, has joined other colleagues, like Damilola Adegbite, Anew Icha, and Meg Otanwa to star in a new TV series entitled, Before 30, expected to start showing from March 16, 2015.

The drama series revolves around four women living in Lagos and the pressures they face to get married before they turn 30.

‘Before 30’ touches on social, financial, physical and religious issues that women face before marriage.

The TV series will hit Africa Magic Channels, Ebony Life, Silverbird, ON TV, Sound City, Cool TV, Oh TV soon.

How Seyi Law, wife lost their first child

Opeoluwani Akintayo This is a sad time for Comedian Seyi Law and his wife, Stacy Ebere.

The couple lost their first child not long after Stacy gave birth in a Maryland hospital in USA. Seyi Law and his wife got married on March 27, 2011 at Banilux Event Centre, Sabo Yaba, Lagos. Since then, the couple didn’t have any issue until now. The dead child would have been their first.

The comedian, already, christened the baby Cossy before her death.

Broken-hearted Seyi Law shared the sad news on Instagram, writing: ‘My heart is blank, my joy has disappeared,

PHOTOSPEAK

Nigerian Entertainment Conference holds April 22 The third edition of the Nigerian Entertainment Conference (NEC) will hold in Lagos, Nigeria on Wednesday, April 22, according to a statement issued Monday, Feb.16, 2015 by the organisers, NET Newspaper.

The umbrella conference for the Nigerian entertainment sector, which debuted in 2013, will see everyone come together again at Eko Hotels, Lagos, for a full day of deliberations, workshops, exhibitions and master-classes.

Speakers and facilitators for this year include acclaimed Nigerian actress and trainer, Joke Silva; BET and MTV awardwinning pop star, Davido; Afrinolly’s Chike Maduegbuna; founder and CEO of Ebony Life TV, Mo Abudu; IT entrepreneur, Chika Nwobi; rapper and business executive, M.I Abaga and iROKO TV founder, Jason Njoku. Others are music distributor, Uba Pacific; media administrator, Deji

Awokoya; marketing icon, George Thorpe; entrepreneur, Ayo Makun; founder of NotJustOk, Demola Ogundele and Quilox chairman, Shina Peller.

Session moderators include Bukky Sawyerr-Izeogu (Classic FM), Zainab Balogun (Ebony Life), Osagie Alonge (Pulse), Oreka Godis, Dayo Odulaja (NET), Olamide Adedeji (Soundcity), Ehiz Okoeguale (MTV Base) and others. The event will be hosted

by Tee A for the third year running.

This year’s conference, according to NEC founder, Ayeni Adekunle is themed: ‘Buying and Selling Nigerian Entertainment and

Everything In-Between’.

“We’re moving the conversation beyond rhetoric this year, and, actually, providing a platform for individuals and companies doing great stuff to come and show the world what we’re about”, he said.

This year’s session will be more about what practitioners have done in the past years, using case studies to deliver presentations everyone can learn from.

All sessions and exhibits will also be accompanied by master-classes by the visionaries plotting the future of the industry.

The conference will hold at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos on Wednesday, April 22.

Confirmed partners for this year include MTV Base, Beat FM, Classic FM, Hip TV, Ebony Life, AV Edge, TNS, ID Africa, EDS, Top Radio, X3M Ideas, and F316.

This year’s conference will mark the fifth anniversary of the debut of Nigerian Entertainment Today (NET) newspaper.

Yvonne Nelson and her new boyfriend on Valentine’s Day.

and Anger has become my companion.

The waiting is over with a bitter end. Oh Lord! Why does it have to be me? I am so imperfect and never denied it. The pains of nine months amounted to nothing.

We believe so much in you. How do I console her when I can’t find strength myself? I thought my feet will dance this season. I have enlarged my tent in waiting, but my waiting has been hit with sadness. I don’t want to murmur or complain, but my emotions are hurt.

Help me to stand Lord, so, I can always be thankful. I want to be stronger in praises this period. I want to hold her hands to comfort her. Help us to pass this season while standing. Rest well, Cossy.’

Daily Times Nigeria

Wednesday February 18, 2015

L3 Gist & Review

Celebrating

Nollywood’s evergreen movies KOSEGBE

Mutiat Alli

Adapted from a bestselling play, Director, Tunde Kelani brings to life the story of a morally upright man, who is plagued by the corrupt and morally bankrupt people around him. The movie boasts of good performances from Kola Oyewo, Peju Ogunmola and Toyin Adegbola. Kosegbe ruthlessly deals with the theme of abuse of power and corruption, something that is still a part of the Nigerian society till date.

allimutiat@yahoo.com 08115557378 The Nigerian movie industry has grown to be envied by other African countries. Ranking third in the movie industry in the world’s movie industry, Nollywood prides itself of having movie stars and interesting movies that have taken the world by storm. The industry celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2012, but the recurring question is: has Nollywood, actually, got to the zenith? If not, how, is it striving to get there? In no particular order, Life &Times chronicles some of the movies that helped shape the industry since its inception.

DOMITILA

Anyone who saw the 1996 movie, Domitilla, will attest to the fact that its success was derived largely from the media buzz it enjoyed. With Ann Njemanze, Enebeli Elebuwa, Kate Henshaw, Basorge Tariah Jnr and Sandra Achums, all lighting up the screen, the movie was an instant box office hit. This blockbuster was produced by Zeb Ejiro.

LIVING IN BONDAGE

The release of this blockbuster in 1992, by Kenneth Nnebue in the eastern city of Onitsha, recorded a huge success to set the pace for Nollywood, as it is known today.

Stars like Kanayo. O. Kanayo, Francis Agu, Okechukwu Ogunjiofor and a host of others were the cast.

OWO BLOW

Shot between 1995/1996 by Tade Ogidan of OGD Productions; this Yoruba action drama movie remains one of Nigeria’s greatest movies. It featured stars like Femi Adebayo, Rachel Oniga, Bimbo Akintola, Taiwo Hassan, Sunday Afolabi, Lanre Balogun, Ayo Mogaji, Lanre Hassan, Jide Kosoko, Sam Loco-Efe and Yinka Quadri. Between the years of its release, Owo Blow won several awards at the Nigerian Film Awards and also featured in two notable international film festivals. The movie was released in three parts, Owo Blow 1 & 2 and 3.

MOST WANTED

Like its predecessor, Most Wanted follows the lives of young women, who take to crime after a harsh life. And just like the American version; this movie was a huge success in Nigeria. With a catchy soundtrack and charismatic leading ladies, Most Wanted remains one of the favourites and one of the best things that happened to Nollywood in its formative years. Starring Regina Askia, Ayo Adesanya and Ibinabo Fiberisima in lead roles, Most Wanted borrows its plot from Hollywood’s Set It Off, which was produced the same year and which recorded a box office success.

HOSTAGES

Arguably, one of the best movies in the 90s, Hostages tells the story of a young man on death row and his battle against an unjust society. Directed by Tade Ogidan, Hostages is thrilling and intriguing to the very last scene.

With the emergence of new technology and what seems to be an array of strong leading men in the industry, Nollywood might just be ready for this classic with a modern twist.

GLAMOUR GIRLS

Glamour Girls, which explored various themes, including sex, money and power, revealed the sensitive issues the industry did not dare touch at the time.

Eucharia Anunobi, Ngozi Ezeonu and Dolly Unachukwu were some of the major faces in this popular movie. A remake of this film, in a more aware Nigerian society would surely bring alive the box office.

42

Ibinabo Fiberesima

President, Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN)

Ejiro Okurame loses father Nollywood actress, Ejiro Okurame has lost her father. According to information, the death occurred on Wednesday, February 11, 2015. Confirming the news, Ejiro said she was heartbroken by the news because the man slept and never woke up the following morning. Ejiro shot into limelight, a decade ago, and is still known for her popular roles in soaps such as Clinic Matters, Every Day People and Ashes of Love amongst others.

ON SET

Movie Title: Eight (8) Featuring: Annie Marculay-Idibia, Kayode Peters, Buchi Directed and produced by Kayode Peters

Ejiro

Issue L4

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday February 18, 2015

A.Y’s 30 Days in Atlanta pirated What can the IGP do?

Opeoluwani Akintayo

o.ogunjimi@dailytimes.com.ng 08126223784 As painful as it may sound, comedian turned actor, Ayo Makun, popularly called A.Y’s first movie, 30 Days in Atlanta is the latest target of pirates who have sunk their sticky fingers into his pie and it’s really tearing him apart.

30 Days in Atlanta is Nigeria’s highest grossing cinema movie and no other Nigerian movie has been able to beat its gross earning since its release.

As at December, 2014, Guy Bruce of Silverbird Cinema, announced that the movie, already, grossed N76million in seven weeks of showing on cinema screens across Nigeria.

Just when A.Y ought to enjoy his cool earning, he’s crying foul that pirates, as usual, upon seeing that his movie was making it big it at the cinemas, decided to make copies and sell on the streets.

This isn’t the first time that movies will be pirated in Nigeria, while producers and artistes continue to cry foul. Different antipiracy bodies have been formed, yet, the menace continues to grow bigger. But, AY decided not to sit still as he decided to take the bull by the horns and forwarded a petition to the Inspector General of Police, informing him of how pirates have been milking him dry of his profits.

The letter reads: “Dear Sir, It is with the deepest sorrow that I pen these words. I have never understood the true meaning of the saying “only the one wearing the shoes feels the pain”, till recent times. Since the advent of Independent Producers, piracy has become the bane of the industry, because, as the saying goes, ‘monkey de work, baboon de chop”.

Obviously, hasn’t Nollywood done enough in that direction to get the government to look into the matter already?

However, since A.Y is one of President Goodluck Jonathan’s favourites, and as we all know, this is the time of election, we won’t be surprised if Mr. President orders his men to quickly look into the matter.

But, seriously, aside from Mr. President jumping to action, what can the IGP do?

Need we remind A.Y that these pirates also have good connections in high places?

His letter reads further: “The excitement that greeted the movie industry through the Box-Office success of 30 Days in Atlanta, has quickly turned to sorrow, as I heard the news that the result of my sweat and sleepless nights has been sold by a traitorous miscreant, yet unknown, to a dubious marketer in Alaba. The news that would have made, not just more Nigerians, but, also foreigners invest in Nollywood, has been dampened by the nefarious activities of intellectual pirates who hide in Alaba”.

not deceive ourselves, these pirates have godfathers.

He writes further: “I have always heard of the risk, faced by honest producers, of loss of revenue, due to the activities of the incessant piracy cabals operating freely, without fear of the law in Nigeria and within the past few weeks, this has been my experience, as I heard of the leak of my movie to various nefarious elements. Enough is enough of the economic hardship that is created for hardworking movie producers by some of these Alaba pirates, who would do anything to reap from where they did not sow”.

Honestly, we doubt if the IGP will lift a finger too, but then, it would be nice to see A.Y and other movie producers have the last laugh.

Read the rest of his letter: “Sir, it has been argued that the

Seriously, Alaba, we hail thee!

“I have contacted Silverbird Film Distribution (whom I submitted the master of my movie to), Mr Afam Ezekude, DG, National Copyright Commission and Mr Ahbu Ventures, who heads a section of Alaba, where the criminals are operating.

Yet, nothing visible has been done to take my movie off the streets,” he wrote.

Didn’t we say so already?

The fact that Silverbird, DG, National Copyright Commission and Alaba management, are already aware of AY’s present worries, but, have refused to lift a finger, is an indication that everyone is powerless against the pirates. Let’s

Pasuma on musical tour

Isaac Oguntoye

As you read this, Fuji act, Wasiu Alabi Pausma is currently on a tour of Canada.

We scooped that he left the shores of Nigeria at the beginning of February to dazzle his numerous fans abroad with his delightful music.

Reports reaching Life & Times have it that the dude left no stone unturned in putting up a scintillating performance as his fans kept clamouring for more.

In case you don’t know who Pasuma is, Ajibola Wonder, as he is fondly called, is King of Fuji music, a popular genre of music among the Yoruba.

He has over 30 albums to his credit and a very large and loyal fan base that cuts across social standing.

Tuface and Annie

impressive figures posted as revenue accrued to Nollywood are a mere drop in the ocean, if the malaise of piracy is properly nipped by the effective implementation of the antipiracy laws by the relevant governmental agencies. Alaba is part of Nigeria and as such the activities therein ought to be governed by the laws of Nigeria.

Even the laudable financial facilities made available by Mr. President, to be accessed by producers towards the development of the industry, both as an employer of labour and a growing contributor to the annual revenue of Nigeria, will be for naught, if the piracy vampires continue to have a field day.

The continued dominance by piracy (pirates) will either lead to producers refusing to make more movies, for fear of loss or that producers who go ahead to make movies, using such funds, will then be forced to become indigent, because they will be unable to pay back the loans accessed due to these vandals.

“Sir, Nollywood is a multi-billion Naira industry and the opening of new cinema houses across the country is, indeed, a cause for celebration for both producers and lovers of Nigerian movies, but, the major challenges

of the Nollywood industry, from its birth till date, has been the issue of transparent distribution channels and the malaise of piracy.

No more should a miscreant be celebrated or allowed to rape intellectual properties of honest and hardworking citizens with impunity, while the owners of the property, impotently, look on. No more should movie producers and other intellectual property owners scramble to quickly make the little they can, before ‘Alaba boys’ get their hands on the content and turn a goldmine into a dunghill.

“I urge you to use your good offices in arresting the illegal spread of 30 Days in Atlanta as a standard for changing the status quo and letting the miscreants know that no one is above the laws of Nigeria”.

Mark our words, if you want, this whole A.Y brouhaha may end with a behind-closeddoor-persuasive meeting and then, A.Y, just like other movie producers, such as Kunle Afolayan, Tunde Kelani, will soon accept his fate after realising that pirates’ only slogan is, Chop I Chop.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday February 18, 2015

L5 Travels & Recreation

Adjarho with his longest wrapper, Adjarho running at the Bucharest City Marathon in 2011, Adjarho David Obaro, Adjarho David Obaro 2

The Man with the longest wrapper Vanessa Obioha If you Google Adjarho David Obaro, you will, probably, be swarmed by his different social media accounts and a little mention in an interview about his running in Bucharest International Marathon. You may stumble on his culinary hang-out in Surulere, Grill It. . . . If you dig deeper, you will, probably, find some interesting facts about his record-breaking longest wrapper title. Another interesting place you may garner information about his wrapper is his Facebook page. That is, if you are patient enough to go through his gallery of pictures.

For one who holds up such status of tying the longest wrapper in the world (37 yards), it is strange that his name is not mentioned in the Guinness World Record. It is perhaps not David’s fault. While he is modest and diffident about his feat, he deserves to be celebrated, at least, in the Guinness World Records formerly known as Guinness Book of Records. Sadly, the Delta State born was denied such fame from the publishers of the record breaking journal. The reason is not far-fetched. He is a black man. He is a Nigerian. Like the biblical saying surrounding the birth of Jesus, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”

Adjarho also got the same

reaction. Thus, little was heard about his feat. But the Nigerian government was partly blamed for this. Adjarho had no support from the government, which thought it absurd. Also being a country with diverse cultures, tribalism came to the fore and Adjarho’s fame was further pushed to the shadows.

However, that didn’t deter the culture promoter, he still uses his wrapper to promote Nigeria’s culture. Adjarho had participated in international Marathon competition with his wrapper, his most recent being the Bucharest International Marathon. Expectedly, he draws people’s attention like magnet when he runs with the wrapper.

Although, he is yet to clinch any victory, Adjarho is, progressively, running to the finishing line on time.

Adjarho’s love for wrapper stemmed from his love of culture and fuelled by his late father’s fashion. A native of Agbara-Otor in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, Adjarho admires the wrapper-tying of his people. His father, J.J Adjarho, was a popular traditional chief in his village and in Benin City, where they lived. He was known for delicate fashion statements at occasions.

Adjarho on his part was always keen on creating his own unique design. While in the secondary

school, he teamed up with his classmates, Junior and Luis to form a creative design company known as JDL, using the initials of their first names. Adjarho was the creative designer in the team.

He would sketch and design clothes, then take same to the tailor to sew. He and his friends soon became a well-known brand in the school, because of his creativity.

“This was in 1985, in Government College, Ughelli, everybody was talking about us in school. We were not wearing the normal designer wears, but, ours, which stood out. The idea of forming my own business line started hatching then”, he said.

Thus, it was his inclination towards culture and fashion that made his father, in 1990, ask him to represent him at a function in the University of Benin. It was the Urhobo Day. In order to step into his father’s shoes, Adjarho had to dress like his father. He went to the event in his full regalia, but, instead of tying the conventional six-yard wrapper of the Urhobo people, Adjarho tied 12 yards, complemented it with beads, hat and a staff. He reeked of royalty that fateful day and nearly took home a wife. A woman in the audience was so intrigued by his appearance and presentation that she offered him her daughter. Everybody applauded Adjarho for his fashion and even

ranked him higher than his father.

As he went home that day, an idea formed in his head. He could, actually, promote the culture of his people through wrapper.

The Urhobo make up the majority ethnic group in Delta State. They are popularly known for their unique style of speaking pidgin language, which is known as Waffi. It has even become a norm to address the Urhobo with their popular greeting “Urhobo Wado’. The Urhobo, though in the past, have been merged with the Isoko, another ethnic group in Delta State, because of their similar language and culture, they are more popular than the latter. They are the fifth largest ethnic group in Nigeria with a population of two million people. They occupy the southern portion of the Benin lowland and the floodplains and swamps of the petroleumrich Niger Delta. Surrounded by the Niger River, the Urhobo have festivities related to the aquatic body such as its annual fishing, swimming contests and masquerade. The Urhobo are also known for dancing.

With this cultural heritage, the significant one that drew Adjarho’s attention was the traditional attire of the Urhobo, the wrapper. A complete attire of the Urhobo consist a tunic, wrapper, traditional beads, a staff

Fact file 1. He is a native of AgbarahOtor in Ughelli North LGA Delta state 2. He tied the longest wrapper in the world (37 yards) 3. He is a culture promoter.

4. Participated in the Bucharest City Marathon 5. His record was never published in the Guinness World Records.

6. He is an arts collector, a humanitarian, a photographer and a chef.

and a cowboy hat. Inspired by his kinsman, the late first Finance Minister of Nigeria, Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh and his overflowing traditional gear, Adjarho made up his mind to promote the culture of his people and Nigeria through the wrapper.

“I made a decision that whenever I’m travelling within and outside the country, I must be dressed in my traditional attire”, he said.

He started dressing in his traditional attire to any occasion and his father was very willing to dole out his wrappers to him.

Still determined to beat OkotieEboh’s 20-yard record, Adjarho graduated from tying 6 yards to 12 yards and then to 37 yards of wrapper. This task, as he would later realise, was an onerous one.

He had to employ 12 people to help him carry the wrapper. The wrapper is, usually, of one colour and represents all the states in Nigeria, arranged alphabetically.

In 2002, he broke the Guinness World Record of tying the longest wrapper in the world. Known for recording cultural heritages and extremes of human achievements, Adjarho was filled with excitement that his name would be etched in the hall of fame in the journal. But that excitement was extinguished and his name was never published.

Nonetheless, Adjarho has a plethora of feats to add to his name. As an athlete, he was among the first runners of the MTN Marathon Race, he is a regular participant at the Bucharest International Marathon Race. Adjarho still promotes the Nigeria culture by visiting schools to talk to students to imbibe the culture of dressing in their traditional attires. He is a humanitarian, missionary, an arts collector and a photographer. Presently, he runs a grilling station in Surulere where he treats his guests to palatable grilling recipes.

Fashion L6

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday February 18, 2015

Mutiat Alli

Special

Aso Ebi is an African thing, especially, in Nigeria, and as you read this, no country has been able to beat Nigerians to it. When it comes to weddings, birthday parties, burials and other gigs, Nigerians are always at their best with colourful combinations and all. Feed your eyes with some of our collections.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday February 18, 2015

L7 Nutrition

How to eat when Judith Frank-Edet

pregnant

The goal of a pregnant woman eating for two is to provide everything for her baby without sacrificing her own health or nutrition. Eating for two can be nerve-wracking, especially, with so much conflicting information.

Is it important to eat enough fish, or does it contain too much mercury? Do you need meat for protein, or is it too fatty? Are eggs okay, or do they have too much cholesterol? Here are the details for you.

Eggs It’s amazing what you get in one egg. Eggs contain much quality protein, which is essential for pregnancy. Your baby’s cells are growing at an exponential rate, and every cell is made of protein, plus, as a pregnant woman, you have your own protein needs. Eggs are also rich in choline, which promotes your baby’s overall growth and brain health, while helping prevent neural tube defects. So start thinking eggs. According to food nutritionist, Elizabeth Ward, “Healthy women with normal blood cholesterol can consume one to two eggs a day as part of

a balanced diet low in saturated fat, But if cholesterol is a concern for you, substitute egg whites for whole eggs.”

Okra soup This is another soup you should try when expecting.

It’s great for pregnant women because it contains folic acid, which is needed for the formation of the neural tube of the foetus.

Beans Beans contain the most fibre and protein of all the vegetables.

When you’re pregnant, your gastrointestinal tract slows down, putting you at risk for constipation and hemorrhoids.

Fiber can help prevent and relieve these problems. In addition, food that contains fibre tends to be rich in nutrients. This is certainly true of beans, which are good sources of iron, folate, calcium, and zinc.

Sweet potatoes Sweet potatoes get their colour from carotenoids, plant pigments that are converted to vitamin A in our bodies. Although, consuming too much “preformed” vitamin A

(found in animal sources, such as liver, milk, and eggs) can be dangerous, carotenoids are a different type. They’re converted to vitamin A only as needed, so there’s no need to restrict your consumption of vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables.

of healthy fruits and vegetables in the womb, you’ll increase the chance that your baby will recognise and accept those flavours later on.

Popcorn and other whole grains Yes, you read that right.

Popcorn is a whole grain. Whole grains are important in pregnancy because they’re high in fibre and nutrients, including vitamin E, selenium, and phytonutrients (plant compounds that protect cells). I am not talking about that “butter-laden popcorn” you get at the movies, the majority of the nutritional value is eclipsed by unhealthy fats and salt. I mean a healthy non-sugar popcorn. But don’t stop at popcorn: There are lots of other whole grains out there.

Groundnuts/ Walnuts Walnuts are one of the richest sources of plant-based Omega-3.

A handful of walnuts is a great choice for an on-the-run snack or an addition to a salad.

Walnuts are also a good source of protein and fibre.

Groundnuts help to reduce the nausea that comes with pregnancy.

Dark green, leafy vegetables Pumpkin leaves, Spinach, water leaves and other green leafy vegetables are loaded with vitamins and nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as the all-important foliate. An expectant mother should aim for five portions of fruit and/or vegetables per day.

Yogurt I don’t mean that hawked on the streets.

You will get a good yogurt from a good supermarket or food store. Yogurt is a great source of calcium, which is vital in a pregnancy diet. If you don’t take in enough calcium, the limited amount you have, will go to your baby, depleting the calcium in your bones. Calcium will help keep your own bones intact while laying down a healthy skeleton for your baby.”

Colorful fruits and veggies Eating plenty of green, red, orange, yellow, purple, and white fruits and vegetables ensures that you and your baby get a variety of nutrients. During the later stages of pregnancy, the baby ‘tastes’ the foods you eat through the amniotic fluid, so if you expose your baby to a variety

Avocado Avocado is high in vitamins, such as folic acid, which are good for pregnant women as it is essential in the development of the nervous system and brain of the baby. It also has vitamin C, potassium and vitamin B6 that aids in the growth of the baby’s brain and tissues.

Avoid junk foods This include all spreading fats (such as butter), oils, salad dressings, cream, chocolate, crisps, biscuits, pastries, ice cream, cake, fizzy drinks, Alcohol and caffeine

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday February 18, 2015

L8 Television

Showing on 113 EDGE

Showing on 101 M

23:30

00:00

Tues, 17 Feb | 16 VN

Tue, 17 Feb | 13 VL

‘S1/E5- Something Borrowed’. Filmed in South Africa, this epic fantasy series based on the movie Legion, centers around a war between the angels and mankind. Alex is led astray by a vision in this episode. (2014).

101 M-Net West

‘S1-E9- The Trials’. Epic Dane (Grey’s Anatomy) stars in this post-apocalyptic drama helmed by the executive producer of without A Trace. In this episode, trials for the vaccine begin. (2014).

128 SONY MAX

118 Telemundo

254 Channels 00:00 Brights 01:00 Music Africa 02:00 Boom Town 02:30 STV Sports Café 03:00 Local Movie 05:00 Gospel Rhythms 06:30 Insights For Living 07:00 STV AM News 07:30 Today On Stv 09:30 Health Monitor

00:00 The Last Ship 00:30 Marvel's Agent Carter 01:30 Hollywood's 10 Best 02:00 Gotham 03:00 The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty 04:50 Bears 06:05 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 07:00 Masterchef Junior USA 08:00 Mom 08:30 Perception 09:30 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 10:30 Captain America: The Winter Soldier 12:40 About A Boy 13:05 Masterchef Junior USA 14:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 15:00 Caught On Camera 16:00 The Lottery 17:00 Olive Kitteridge

00:00 The Queen Of The South 00:30 Aurora 01:20 Fearless Heart 02:10 The Queen Of The South 03:00 My Heart Beats For Lola 03:50 Broken Angel 05:20 Where Is Elisa?

06:10 Aurora 07:00 Fearless Heart 07:50 My Heart Beats For Lola 08:40 Broken Angel 09:30 Where Is Elisa?

10:20 Aurora 11:10 Fearless Heart 12:00 My Heart Beats For Lola 12:50 Broken Angel 13:40 Where Is Elisa?

14:30 Aurora 15:20 Fearless Heart 16:10 My Heart Beats For Lola 17:00 Broken Angel 17:50 Where Is Elisa?

18:40 Aurora 19:30 Fearless Heart 20:20 My Heart Beats For Lola 21:10 The Queen Of The South 22:00 Broken Angel

120 BBC Entertainment 00:00 Total Wipeout UK

11:35 Hell's Kitchen USA

00:30 Top Gear

12:20 Top Gear

01:15 Inspector George Gently

13:20 Come Dine With Me

02:40 Come Dine With Me

14:15 Hell's Kitchen USA

03:30 The Weakest Link

15:05 The Weakest Link

04:15 Top Gear

16:00 EastEnders

05:00 Outnumbered

16:30 Deal Or No Deal

05:30 QI

17:10 The Cube

06:05 Spy

18:00 Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

06:30 EastEnders

19:00 Top Gear

07:00 Antiques Roadshow

20:10 Top Gear's Top 41

07:55 The Weakest Link

21:10 Hell's Kitchen USA

08:45 The Cube

22:00 Live At The Apollo

09:30 Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

22:50 QI

10:20 Deal Or No Deal 11:00 My Family

10:30 STV Sports Café 11:00 Edak Willie Show 11:30 Recreazion 12:05 Music Africa 14:05 Papa Ajasco 14:30 Artiste Zone 15:00 Daddy's Girls 15:30 Brights 16:05 Nickelodeon 17:00 Lies That Bind

00:00 Cheaters

09:00 Most Shocking

00:15 Unbeatable Banzuke

10:00 The Smoking Gun Presents: World's...

00:40 Unbeatable Banzuke

11:00 The Smoking Gun Presents: World's...

01:05 Rude Tube

11:55 Cheaters

01:30 Poorman's Bikini Beach

12:50 World's Most Amazing Videos

19:30 Taste of Love

01:55 Chameleon 3: Dark Angel

13:45 World's Wildest Police Videos

20:00 Dream Movie

03:20 The Smoking Gun Presents: World's...

14:45 Video Zonkers

04:05 Unbeatable Banzuke

15:10 Video Zonkers

21:30 Head To Head

04:30 Unbeatable Banzuke

15:40 1000 Ways To Die

05:00 Takeshi's Castle

16:10 The Smoking Gun Presents: World's...

05:25 Takeshi's Castle

17:05 World's Most Amazing Videos

05:50 Cheaters

18:00 World's Wildest Police Videos

06:45 The Smoking Gun Presents: World's...

19:00 Most Shocking

07:40 World's Wildest Police Videos

20:00 Impractical Jokers

08:35 I Bet You Will

20:30 Impractical Jokers

17:30 In My Closet 18:02 MTV Base 19:00 STV News @ 7

22:00 STV News @ 10 19:15 Straight Talk 20:15 Face-Off 21:00 Sports Tonight 22:00 News @ Ten

124 E! Entertainment Television 00:00 Fashion Bloggers

10:30 Party On

00:30 Fashion Bloggers

11:00 E! News

01:00 Keeping Up With The Kardashians

12:00 Eric And Jessie: Game On

02:00 The Drama Queen

12:30 Eric And Jessie: Game On

03:00 Botched

13:15 Celebrity Style Story

04:00 Botched

14:00 Keeping Up With The Kardashians

05:00 The E! True Hollywood Story

15:00 Rich Kids Of Beverly Hills

06:00 Macklemore's Big Surprise

15:30 Rich Kids Of Beverly Hills

07:15 Celebrity Style Story

16:15 Celebrity Style Story

08:00 Giuliana & Bill

17:00 Keeping Up With The Kardashians

09:00 Keeping Up With The Kardashians

18:00 E! News

10:00 Party On

19:00 Kourtney And Khloe Take The Hamptons

20:00 Fashion Bloggers 20:30 Fashion Bloggers 21:00 Fashion Police 22:15 Celebrity Style Story 18:00 Meet The Adebanjos 18:30 Foot Prints 19:00 Mary Slessor 19:30 Tinsel 20:00 The Johnsons 20:30 Katemba Mu Kkooti 21:00 53 Extra 21:30 Tinsel 22:00 The Dzigbordi Show

CAF U-17

Poster!

Eaglets, Guinea clash in Niamey

PERSONAL TYSON’S INFORMATION ACHIEVEMENTS Name: Real name: Nicknames:

MIKE TYSON

X3

Rated at: Height: Reach: Nationality: Born: Place of birth: York, U.S. Stance: Boxing record Total fights: Wins: Wins by KO: Losses:

Mike Tyson Michael Gerard Tyson The Baddest Man on the Planet Kid Dynamite Iron Mike Heavyweight 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) 71 in (180 cm) American June 30, 1966 (age 48) Brooklyn, New York City, New Peek-a-Boo 58 50 44 6

Draws:

0

No contests:

2

Ï CƑ ƈ Ə RƋƕƌƍƈƅ 1 ƌƆ ƌƍƈ æ6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛç ơÖƤƾ Ï M Ɛƈ Ƌ 1 ƋƗƆ 1Ƌ ƒƆ ƌƍƈ æ6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛç ơÖƤƿ Ï n Ɨƈ ƍƑƐƆƗ 6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛ ƅ ƌƍƈ æ ƆƋƗ ƋƋ Ɛ ƏƆƆ ƌ Ɖ Ə ƅ ƌƍƈ ƈƍ ƄƆƋƐ ì z è 9 0è Ɨ z ç Ƒ Ƒ Ɛ ơè ơÖƤƣ 0ƆƄƏƑ Əƕ ơơè ơÖÖƠ Ï z 6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛ ƌƍƈ M ƒƆƌƄƆƏ ƾƾè ơÖƤÕ 0ƆƄƏƑ Əƕ ơơè ơÖÖƠè L Əƅ ơÕè ơÖÖÕ dƆƍƐƆƌƄƆƏ ƾƿè ơÖÖÕ æy ƅ ƐƆƗç Ï z 6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛ ƌƍƈ L Əƅ ƣè ơÖƤƣ 0ƆƄƏƑ Əƕ ơơè ơÖÖƠè dƆƍƐƆƌƄƆƏ ƣè ơÖÖÕ M ƒƆƌƄƆƏ Öè ơÖÖÕ Ï 9 0 6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛ ƌƍƈ Ƒ Ƒ Ɛ ơè ơÖƤƣ 0ƆƄƏƑ Əƕ ơơè ơÖÖƠ

RECORDS

Ï Ƒ Ɔ Ɛ 6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛ ƅ ƌƍƈ ƾƠ ƕƆ Ə Ɨ ƿ ƌ Ɛ Ï CƑ ƈ Ə RƋƕƌƍƈƅ ƎƑƈƅƊƆ Ɛ ER Ƥ Ɔƅ Ɨ

AWARDS

Ï `ƈ L Ɩƈ Ɔ 0ƈ ƐƆƏ Ƈ Ɛ Ɔ Ɔ ƏÔơÖƤÕ Ɨ ơÖƤƤ Ï dƍ ƏƐ ^ƆƏ ƋƈƐƕ Ƈ Ɛ Ɔ Ɔ Ə RƒƆƏ Ɔ ^ƆƏ ƋƈƐƕÔơÖƤÖ Ï `ƈ ƌ Ɩƈ Ɔ ^Ə ƍƆƅƐ Ƈ Ɛ Ɔ Ɔ ƏÔơÖƤǀ Ï ^Ə ƇƆ ƈ Ƌ zƏƆ ƐƋƈ Ï zz& 6 ƋƋ Ƈ 0 ƌƆ æ Ƌ Ƈ ƾƠơƾç

“When I fight someone, I want to break his will. I want to take his ƌ Ɨê 9 Ɠ Ɛ Ɛ Əƈƍ ƑƐ ƈ Ɔ ƏƐ Ɨ Ɠ ƈƐ Ɛ ƈƌêÿ LƈƊƆ jƕ

Ò9 Ɨ ôƐ ƏƆ ƅƐ Ɛ ƐƏ ƈƅ ƍƍƆ ƈ ƕ ƌ ƏƆê 9 Ɛ Ɗ ƌ ƕ Ƅ Ɨ Ɛ ƈ ƊƈƗ Ɨ ƌƆ ƍƆ ƍƋƆ Ɛ ƈ Ɗ 9 Ɨ ôƐ ƅ ƏƆ Ƅ ƑƐ ƕƐ ƈ ê 9Ɛô ƉƑ Ɛ Ɛ ƏƗ Ƈ Ə ƌƆ Ɛ ƆƐ Ɔƌ Ɛƈ Ƌê 9 ƅ ôƐ ƅƏƕ ƌ ƏƆêÿ LƈƊƆ jƕ ê “I’m a dreamer. I have to dream and reach for the stars, and if I miss a Ɛ Ə Ɛ Ɔ 9 Ə Ƅ ƗƇƑƋ Ƈ ƅƋ ƑƗ êÿ LƈƊƆ jƕ Ò9 ƄƆ Ɛ G ƏƏƕ 6 ƋƌƆ Ɨ 1Ɔ Ə Ɔ 0 ƏƆƌ ê 9 Ɠ ƈƍƍƆƗ LƈƊƆ jƕ ƐƓƈƅƆê 9 Ɨ ƌƕ Ɔ Ə ƅ ƆƓƆƗ ƇƇ Ɨ ƍ Ɛ Ɛ Ɔ Ə Ƒ Ɨ ƈ ƇƏ Ɛ Ƈ ƌƆê 9ôƒƆ ƆƆ ƆƒƆƏƕƐ ƈ ƈƐ ƈ ƍ ƈƄƋƆ Ɛ ƆƆ ƈ Ƅ Ɣƈ ê 9 Ɗ Ɠ Ɛ ƈ business better than anyone. So I live and die by my own decisions.ÿ &ƒ ƗƆƏ 6 ƋƕƇƈƆƋƗ

TYSON

X4,5

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Stars of Yesteryear

FLO-JO:

AMERICA’S SPRINT QUEEN

X7

LVG:

FELLAINI RED DEVILS’

!

JOKER

X2

INTERVIEW

INIESTA opens up on ambitious Barca X6

X2

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

EXTRATIME

FELLAINI MY SECRET WEAPON! –LVG Louis van Gaal has heaped praise on Marouane Fellaini after his display in the 3-1 fightback win at Preston, declaring the midfielder his ‘secret weapon’.

Fellaini was pushed forward from midfield to partner Wayne Rooney in attack as part of a switch that saw Radamel Falcao replaced by Ashley Young on the hour mark in Monday night’s FA Cup tie at Deepdale.

The Belgian scored United’s second

goal - minutes after Ander Herrera had equalised - and van Gaal admitted his 6ft 4 man offers a crucial attacking alternative against stubborn opponents.

“I have used Fellaini a lot of times already - more than ever and he scores more than ever,” van Gaal said.

“He is a player that when we cannot beat the pressure with quality, we can always beat the pressure. That is a quality.

“Now I have played him for the first time in his preferred position, but we have a lot of players who can play there.

“The whole team did it well because they believe also that we could do it with this shape.

“As trainer-coach or a staff, you can change the system, but your players have to believe in it and perform it and that is not so easy and they do it and not for the first time. That is fantastic.”

Fellaini

AYEW

BRIEF

LMC HOLDS GLO PREMIER LEAGUE DRAWS

FROWNS AT MARSEILLE PAY-CUT OFFER

Mike Otanwa

Ronaldo

LFP INVESTIGATES

‘RONALDO

IS A DRUNK’ CHANT

Ayew Ghana ace Andre Ayew says Olympique Marseille’s financial crises cannot enable them to retain him at the club due to high wages.

The Ghana international has ruled out a pay cut which could be the only reason for him to stay on at the Stade Velodrome.

Ayew’s contract expires in June and would be available for suitors on a free transfer.

“Marseille has financial worries,

they cannot pay certain wages. I am at Marseille, I can still be here tomorrow.

In my head, everything is open. But I like Marseille. There will soon be a meeting.

A pay cut to stay in Marseille? No, a player wants to progress in all aspects,” he said.

Newcastle, Borussia Dortmund are reported to have opened talks with Ayew with regards to a pre-contract agreement.

The Liga de Futbol Profesional (LFP) said it will mull a formal investigation over inappropriate chants of “Cristiano is a drunk” from Camp Nou fans during the Barcelona-Levante match.

The LFP said it will review videos, seen on social media, of the fans and present the evidence to the league’s Anti-Violence Committee. This is not the first time the LFP has singled out Barcelona to the league’s Anti-

Violence Committee as chants made during Barcelona’s match vs. Espanyol were also subject to a probe.

Ronaldo had been criticised for celebrating his birthday party following Real Madrid’s 4-0 derby upset by Atletico Madrid.

The LFP has said it wants to apply the same yardstick that was used at the Bernabeu after derogatory chants toward Lionel Messi were heard last year.

The 2014/15 Nigeria Glo Premier League fixtures will be drawn at a ceremony in Abuja today as the League Management Company (LMC) reminded clubs that February 20 remains the deadline for submission of registration materials for the season.

Salihu Abubakar, the Chief Operating Officer of the LMC said the draw ceremony is part of the build-up to the new season, coming after the Glo Premier League Super-4 Invitational. He added that the March 5 final date for the submission of Financial Performance Guaranty still stands and said appropriate sanctions will be applied to clubs that breach the deadline.

UEFA Champions League Fixtures Today’s Matches Basel v FC Porto 20:45 Schalke 04 v Real Madrid 20:45

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

EXTRATIME

X3

CAF Champions League:

EGUAVOEN

thumbs up Enyimba, Pillars

Golden Eaglets celebrate after defeating hosts, Niger 2-0 at the on-going CAF U-17 Championship.

Ojieva Ehiosun

Niger 2015:

le tt a b a e in u G , ts le g Ea t e k c ti l a n fi im e s r fo Mike Otanwa

F

IFA U-17 world champions, Golden Eaglets of Nigeria, will battle Guinea today at the on-going 11th Africa Under-17 Championship in Niger Republic.

Both Eaglets and Guinea started the 11th African U-17 Championship with a win, Nigeria down host Niger with a 2-0 win,

while Guinea secured a lone goal victory over Zambia in Group A. With a guaranteed World Cup ticket for the semifinalist at Niger 2015, the clash between Nigeria and Guinea will set a semifinal tone for the winner. Both teams are on three points each, so a win for either side will put them at six points and a secured spot in the semifinal. This also tantamounts to a World Cup

ticket in Chile later on this year.

Eaglets coach, Emmanuel Amunike’s reaction after the victory showed that the Eaglets are ready to come all out in their next match with an intention to score plenty goals.

“The most important thing in football today is to win. It was important for us to win our first game. We took our chances and

defended well. Now we have to see how we can grow from strength to strength,” Amunike said.

Meanwhile, former Golden Eaglets coach, John Obuh, has charged the nation’s campaigners to double their performance against Guinea. Obuh said Eaglets must play better than they did against the hosts, Niger Republic, to be assured of victory against the Guineans.

CAF tourney:

Kenneth Omeruo (right) of Middlesbrough in action against Leon Clarke of Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Club owners hail OMERUO targets promotion with Boro

K

enneth Omeruo, 21, returned to Middlesbrough’s starting line in their fifth round of the FA Cup against Arsenal at The Emirates on Sunday evening.

The Nigeria international replaced Daniel Ayala in the first team squad after the Spaniard picked up an injury prior to the game.

Boro crashed to a 2 - 0 defeat to Arsenal, a result which means that they will not be in the hat for the sixth round draw on Monday.

Kenneth Omeruo has sent his sympathies to the fans and has

stressed that they have set their sights on promotion to the Premier League. ‘’Wasn’t the result we were hoping for. Now we have to focus on the league. Fans was unreal,’’ said Kenneth Omeruo on Twitter.

As things stand, Middlesbrough are still in the race for automatic promotion, and are level on 59 points with table-toppers AFC Bournemouth, who have a superior goal difference.

Kenneth Omeruo will remain at the Riverside Stadium until June 30, 2015.

teams for great show Mike Otanwa with agency report

N

igeria Premier League (NPL) club chairmen and managers have expressed delight with the performances of the four teams representing the country in the CAF continental championships for their excellent results at the weekend.

Glo League champions Kano Pillars and Warri Wolves secured vital away victories, while two-time CAF Champions League winners, Enyimba, got the maximum points and goals at home, with Dolphins in a narrow 0-1 away loss.

The club owners, in a statement signed by the Acting Chairman, Barr.

Isaac Danladi, and the Ag. Secretary, Alloy Chukwuemeka, congratulated the clubs for their victories and

charged them to redouble their efforts and not be carried away by their present results.

Meanwhile, in another development the club owners have welcomed one of its former frontline members, Tony Ogola, of the defunct Ocean Boys FC, as the new chairman of Bayelsa United.

The association described Ogola as a tested and trusted hand who will bring his wealth of experience not only as a football administrator, but also as a former local government chairman.

They specifically thanked the outgoing Bayelsa United boss Odogu Akpofini for his contributions to the association, describing him as a loyal and easy going gentleman.

Akpofini urged stakeholders to give support to the new boss in the true spirit of sportsmanship.

F

ormer head coach of Enyimba International Football Club of Aba, Austin Eguavoen, has showered encomiums on two Nigerian club sides, Enyimba FC of Aba and Kano Pillars FC of Kano, for a good start in the 2014/15 CAF Champions League preliminaries.

The erstwhile Super Eagles manager said the victory recorded by the teams is a sign of good omen.

He, therefore, charged the players and the management of the teams not to lose focus on their dreams, adding that this is just the beginning of the race.

“The boys did very well over the weekend in their continental assignments. CAF Champions League is an important competition and any club that qualifies for it knows that they are in for real business.

“For a club to start very well by beating an opponent with 3-0 and 2-0, respectively, is a good thing. It shows that the teams have something to offer. I have always known Enyimba as a good side because I was there and I’m confident that they will do well in the competition, if giving the necessary backing.

“They are not new to CAF Champions League, they have won it twice and I know, with the way they have started, there is the possibility that they will go far. Enyimba have an experienced manager like Kadiri Ikhana. He has done it for them before and I know he will do it again,” Eguavoen said.

On Kano Pillars, he said: “Kano Pillars have a good and experienced manager in Okey Emordi. He is not new to the system; he is a manager with deep experience and good skills.

What he needs now is good support from the state government.”

Eguavoen

X4

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

EXTRATIME

T

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

EXTRATIME

X5

PERSONAL TYSON’S INFORMATION ACHIEVEMENTS Name: Real name: Nicknames:

Rated at: Height: Reach: Nationality: Born: Place of birth: York, U.S. Stance: Boxing record Total fights: Wins: Wins by KO: Losses:

Mike Tyson Michael Gerard Tyson The Baddest Man on the Planet Kid Dynamite Iron Mike Heavyweight 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) 71 in (180 cm) American June 30, 1966 (age 48) Brooklyn, New York City, New Peek-a-Boo 58 50 44 6

Draws:

0

No contests:

2

Ï CƑ ƈ Ə RƋƕƌƍƈƅ 1 ƌƆ ƌƍƈ æ6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛç ơÖƤƾ Ï M Ɛƈ Ƌ 1 ƋƗƆ 1Ƌ ƒƆ ƌƍƈ æ6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛç ơÖƤƿ Ï n Ɨƈ ƍƑƐƆƗ 6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛ ƅ ƌƍƈ æ ƆƋƗ ƋƋ Ɛ ƏƆƆ ƌ Ɖ Ə ƅ ƌƍƈ ƈƍ ƄƆƋƐ ì z è 9 0è Ɨ z ç Ƒ Ƒ Ɛ ơè ơÖƤƣ 0ƆƄƏƑ Əƕ ơơè ơÖÖƠ Ï z 6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛ ƌƍƈ M ƒƆƌƄƆƏ ƾƾè ơÖƤÕ 0ƆƄƏƑ Əƕ ơơè ơÖÖƠè L Əƅ ơÕè ơÖÖÕ dƆƍƐƆƌƄƆƏ ƾƿè ơÖÖÕ æy ƅ ƐƆƗç Ï z 6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛ ƌƍƈ L Əƅ ƣè ơÖƤƣ 0ƆƄƏƑ Əƕ ơơè ơÖÖƠè dƆƍƐƆƌƄƆƏ ƣè ơÖÖÕ M ƒƆƌƄƆƏ Öè ơÖÖÕ Ï 9 0 6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛ ƌƍƈ Ƒ Ƒ Ɛ ơè ơÖƤƣ 0ƆƄƏƑ Əƕ ơơè ơÖÖƠ

RECORDS

Ï Ƒ Ɔ Ɛ 6Ɔ ƒƕƓƆƈ Ɛ ƅ ƌƍƈ ƾƠ ƕƆ Ə Ɨ ƿ ƌ Ɛ Ï CƑ ƈ Ə RƋƕƌƍƈƅ ƎƑƈƅƊƆ Ɛ ER Ƥ Ɔƅ Ɨ

AWARDS

Ï `ƈ L Ɩƈ Ɔ 0ƈ ƐƆƏ Ƈ Ɛ Ɔ Ɔ ƏÔơÖƤÕ Ɨ ơÖƤƤ Ï dƍ ƏƐ ^ƆƏ ƋƈƐƕ Ƈ Ɛ Ɔ Ɔ Ə RƒƆƏ Ɔ ^ƆƏ ƋƈƐƕÔơÖƤÖ Ï `ƈ ƌ Ɩƈ Ɔ ^Ə ƍƆƅƐ Ƈ Ɛ Ɔ Ɔ ƏÔơÖƤǀ Ï ^Ə ƇƆ ƈ Ƌ zƏƆ ƐƋƈ Ï zz& 6 ƋƋ Ƈ 0 ƌƆ æ Ƌ Ƈ ƾƠơƾç

“When I fight someone, I want to break his will. I want to take his ƌ Ɨê 9 Ɠ Ɛ Ɛ Əƈƍ ƑƐ ƈ Ɔ ƏƐ Ɨ Ɠ ƈƐ Ɛ ƈƌêÿ LƈƊƆ jƕ

Ò9 Ɨ ôƐ ƏƆ ƅƐ Ɛ ƐƏ ƈƅ ƍƍƆ ƈ ƕ ƌ ƏƆê 9 Ɛ Ɗ ƌ ƕ Ƅ Ɨ Ɛ ƈ ƊƈƗ Ɨ ƌƆ ƍƆ ƍƋƆ Ɛ ƈ Ɗ 9 Ɨ ôƐ ƅ ƏƆ Ƅ ƑƐ ƕƐ ƈ ê 9Ɛô ƉƑ Ɛ Ɛ ƏƗ Ƈ Ə ƌƆ Ɛ ƆƐ Ɔƌ Ɛƈ Ƌê 9 ƅ ôƐ ƅƏƕ ƌ ƏƆêÿ LƈƊƆ jƕ ê “I’m a dreamer. I have to dream and reach for the stars, and if I miss a Ɛ Ə Ɛ Ɔ 9 Ə Ƅ ƗƇƑƋ Ƈ ƅƋ ƑƗ êÿ LƈƊƆ jƕ Ò9 ƄƆ Ɛ G ƏƏƕ 6 ƋƌƆ Ɨ 1Ɔ Ə Ɔ 0 ƏƆƌ ê 9 Ɠ ƈƍƍƆƗ LƈƊƆ jƕ ƐƓƈƅƆê 9 Ɨ ƌƕ Ɔ Ə ƅ ƆƓƆƗ ƇƇ Ɨ ƍ Ɛ Ɛ Ɔ Ə Ƒ Ɨ ƈ ƇƏ Ɛ Ƈ ƌƆê 9ôƒƆ ƆƆ ƆƒƆƏƕƐ ƈ ƈƐ ƈ ƍ ƈƄƋƆ Ɛ ƆƆ ƈ Ƅ Ɣƈ ê 9 Ɗ Ɠ Ɛ ƈ business better than anyone. So I live and die by my own decisions.ÿ &ƒ ƗƆƏ 6 ƋƕƇƈƆƋƗ

TYSON

X6

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

EXTRATIME

INTERVIEW

INIESTA: BARCA ARE OUT TO WIN EVERYTHING Andres Iniesta can be a disconcerting figure, whether he is toying with you on the field of play or sitting opposite you for an interview. Cautious and with the softest of voices, his manner seems at odds with that of the global star who secured Spain their one and only FIFA World Cup to date. Always remembered for his joking remark during the victory parade in Madrid, where he told the multitudes, “Si lo sé, no meto el gol” (If I’d known, I wouldn’t have scored), as he struggled with the acclaim and attention that followed his winning goal in the Final.

However, just as he does in every game, the Albacete native met the challenge head-on when he sat down with FIFA.com to discuss a difficult 12 months after a trophy-less 2014 with Barcelona and Spain’s group-stage elimination in Brazil, his disappointments, his immediate future and the challenges facing a Barça side vying to ‘win everything’ this year. Excerpts: We know you’re not too comfortable talking about your merits, but what sets you apart from other midfielders and keeps getting you included in the world team of the year?

No, it’s just difficult to try to single out something you have that others don’t. Everyone possesses these qualities. From a personal standpoint, considering my style of play or my position on the field, I try to read the game quickly and work out where my team-mates will be to link up with them. Every player has a designated role and job to do, and you just try to interpret that as best you can. What I will say is that I find it very pleasing that my fellow pros have this perception of me and continue to include me in this team of the year, despite there being so many great players to choose from.

You said recently that, on balance, 2014 hadn’t been a good year for you, as you hadn’t achieved your goals.

Was that even more frustrating because you’d been so used to success?

Well there have been other not-so-great periods in my career too. It happens when you set yourself goals and objectives but don’t reach them. In that scenario, it’s difficult to talk about positives. But that’s part of sport as well. When you don’t achieve something, you need to be even more motivated the following year for whatever is coming next. Let’s be clear, though. This doesn’t happen because you’ve not tried hard enough – I mean, we all want to win – but sometimes you come up short and it just can’t be called a ‘positive’ year.

Which hurt more…losing La Liga on the final match day, or going out in the first round at the World Cup in Brazil?

Both were hard to digest, given their significance. Barcelona had had a very difficult year in many respects, so to lose the league title at home in the final game was a big, big disappointment. The same applies to the World Cup. For a country like Spain, with the players we had, we expected to have a very good tournament and go a lot further than the first round.

However, when you don’t do things well at tournaments like these, you pay a heavy price. And that’s what happened to us.

Did you continue to follow the World Cup after your elimination or

did you needed some distance?

Yes, well you still follow it, but it feels different when you’re no longer part of it.

You don’t experience it the same way.

Would you agree with those who hailed it as the best World Cup ever?

Well, it had a bit of everything. There were some games with wonderful play and others that didn’t deliver as much.

That said, a World Cup is a unique and incomparable landmark, where you gather the very best. In that sense Spain wasn’t, or rather we weren’t, good enough. That was painful, given all that had gone before and the team we had. We should have gone a bit further at the very least.

We imagine you were urging on Lionel Messi in the final as a team mate in Barca. What’s your reaction to this?

Yes we were watching it. In that sense, it was a pity he couldn’t get his hands on the trophy. There were certain similarities between that Final and ours against the Netherlands at South Africa 2010, like the chances missed and the winner coming in extra time. In truth, though, Germany had a really good World Cup. Do you think they were deserving champions?

At the end of the day, everyone has their own take on that depending on how they interpret things. When you become champions, it’s very hard for anyone to take that away from you or say you didn’t deserve it. In the case of Germany, I think they had a very good tournament, but so did Argentina. Both were in the Final on merit.

Turning to your club, it’s been a rather turbulent start to 2015 for Barcelona. When you showed up for work, how much are you affected by what’s written or said in the media?

Look, there’s no denying that when there’s so much talk on the outside and when it’s not about football or your play, it can affect things. You try, or at least should try, to ignore all of that because a lot of it isn’t true. The sheer number of reports can annoy you. That said, we know we’re at a club where a lot is asked of you, where everything is magnified tenfold.

There are so many opinions and a lot of things can come from that. When things aren’t going exactly to plan, then we have to deal with those kind of situations. The only way we can change that and make

!

“We can a nd have a lot to look forward to . We’ve go ta team and the disapp great ointment of last yea r has to be a motivation for us to s how our true colou rs and try to end this season wit h a smile o n our faces and our fans ce lebrating a title once more.” the public more settled is by playing well and winning. That way they forget a bit about all the stuff on the outside and focus instead on what their players are doing on the pitch.

What surprised you most about what was said at the time? The possible departure of Messi?

I hope and wish that Leo can be with Barça for a long time, because he has been, is and will be fundamental to our competing for honours. That’s my sole desire.

And what are Barça’s aspirations at present?

We are out to win everything we can and have a lot to look forward to. We’ve got a great team and the disappointment of last year has to be a motivation for us to show our true colours and try to end this season with a smile on our faces and our fans celebrating a title once more.

You’re set to turn 31 in May. Has your game changed much over time, and would

it be true to say you run less these days, but more effectively?

No way! (laughs) You have to run more.

Football is so competitive and demanding these days, both in terms of the games you play and the opponents you face, whether domestically or in the Champions League. The only advantage that the passing years gives you is the experience to deal with certain scenarios and read the game. I think I now have what it takes to continue on the same upward trajectory that I’ve been able to follow so far.

We know you wish for good health every New Year, but what did you wish for this year in sporting terms?

I believe everything depends on health, whether you’re a sportsperson or not. It’s the key to enjoying what you do. Above and beyond that, I wished for everything possible in the sporting sense – and not just for the sake of having it. It’s because I believe we can win things and have the team to do precisely that.

Iniesta

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

EXTRATIME

X7

STARS OF YESTERYEAR

F

lorence Delores Griffith Joyner, also known as Flo-Jo, was an American sensational track and field queen.

Born on December 21, 1959, she is considered to be the fastest woman of all time based on the fact that the world records she set in 1988 for both the 100 m and 200 m still stand and have yet to be seriously challenged.

EDUCATION AND CAREER Griffith was born in Los Angeles, California, and she was raised in the Jordan Downs public housing complex.

During the late 1980s she became a popular figure in international track and field because of her record-setting performances and flashy personal style.

She was the wife of the triple jumper Al Joyner and the sister-in-law of the heptathlete and long jumper Jackie Joyner-Kersee.

Flo-Jo ran track at Jordan High School in Los Angeles. As a senior in 1978, she finished sixth at the CIF California State Meet behind future teammates Alice Brown and Pam Marshall.

She attended the California State University at Northridge, and was on their track team coached by JoynerKersee’s future husband, Bob Kersee.

This team also included her teammates Brown and Jeanette Bolden. However, Griffith had to drop out in order to support her family, and then she took a job as a bank teller. Kersee was then able to find financial aid for Griffith and she returned to college.

In 1982, Griffith graduated from UCLA with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology.

Back to her athletic career, Flo-Jo finished fourth in the 200 meter sprint at the first World Championship in Athletics in 1983. The following year she gained much more attention, though mostly because of her extremely long and colorful fingernails, rather than the silver medal that she won in the 1984 Summer Olympics.

In 1985, she won the 100-meter IAAF Grand Prix Final with the time of 11.00 seconds. After the 1984 Olympic Games, she spent less time running, and she married the Olympic triple jump champion of 1984, Al Joyner, in 1987.

Upon returning at the 1987 World Championships, Griffith Joyner finished second again in the 200 meter sprint.

In 1988, with no outstanding early season marks to indicate fitness, in the first race of the quarterfinals of the U.S. Olympic Trials, she stunned her colleagues when she sprinted 100 meters in 10.49 seconds, the world record.

Several sources indicate that her race was most likely wind-assisted. Although at the time of the race the wind meter at the event measured a wind speed of 0.0 meters per second (no wind), some observers who were present noted evidence of significant winds, and wind speeds of up to 7.0 m/s were measured at other times during the track meet.

Flo-Jo was the big favorite for the titles in the sprint events at the 1988 Summer Olympics. In the 100-meter final, she ran a wind-assisted 10.54, beating her nearest rival Evelyn Ashford by 0.30 seconds. In the 200 meter semifinal, she set the world record of 21.56 seconds, and then she broke this record again in winning in the final by 0.38 seconds with her time of 21.34 seconds.

At the same Olympics Griffith Joyner also ran with the 4×100 m relay and the 4×400 m relay teams. Her team won first place in the 4×100 m relay and second place in the 4×400 m relay. Their

time is still the second fastest in history, following the winner of this race. This was her first internationally rated 4×400 m relay.

Griffith Joyner was the winner of the James E. Sullivan Award of 1988 as the top amateur athlete (male or female) in the United States. She retired from competition shortly after that.

In 1996, Griffith Joyner appeared on the Charlie Rose show, and she announced her comeback to competitive athletics, only this time to concentrate on the 400-meter run. Her reason was that she had already set world marks in both the 100 m and 200 m events, with the 400 m world record being her goal. Griffith Joyner trained steadily leading up to the U.S. Olympic trials in June. However, tendonitis in her right leg ended her hopes of becoming a tripleworld-record holder.

ALLEGATIONS OF DRUG USE Aside from whether her 1988 Olympic trial world record was wind-aided, Griffith Joyner was dogged by rumors of drug use.

In 1988, Joaquim Cruz, the Brazilian gold medalist in the 800-meter run at the 1984 Summer Olympics, claimed that Griffith Joyner’s times could only have been the result of using steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs, that her physique had changed dramatically in 1988 (showing marked gains in muscle mass and definition), and that her performance had improved dramatically over a short period of time.

Before the 1988 track and field season, Griffith Joyner’s best time in the 100-meter sprint was 10.96 seconds.

In 1988, she improved that by 0.47 seconds (or 0.35 sec for the non-windaided time).

Similarly, her best before 1988 at 200-meters was 21.96 seconds.

In 1988, she improved that by 0.62 seconds to 21.34 seconds, another time that has not been approached. Prior to the Olympic games in Seoul, she prematurely cut her European tour short (she had been booed off the track by the spectators). Griffith Joyner attributed the change in her physique to new health programs.

Griffith Joyner retired from competitive track and field after her Olympic triumph in 1988. She was repeatedly tested during competition, and she did not fail any of these drug tests.

DEATH On September 21, 1998, Griffith Joyner died in her sleep at home in the Canyon Crest neighborhood of Mission Viejo, California, at the age of 38. The unexpected death was investigated by the sheriff-coroner’s office, which announced on October 22 that the cause of death was suffocation during a severe epileptic seizure. She was also found to have had a cavernous hemangioma, a congenital brain abnormality that made Joyner subject to seizures. According to a family attorney, she had suffered a tonic–clonic seizure in 1990, and had also been treated for seizures in 1993 and 1994.

The coroner had requested that Griffith Joyner’s body specifically be tested for steroids, but was informed that there was not enough urine in her bladder and that the test could not accurately be performed on other biological samples.

The city of Mission Viejo dedicated a park at the entrance to her neighborhood in her honor.

Joyner

FLORENCE GRIFFITH JOYNER:

AMERICA’S

SENSATIONAL

TRACK QUEEN!

X8

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

EXTRATIME

EXTRATIME

GUNNERS

FABREGAS

STILL FANCIES ARSENAL Cesc Fabregas has inadvertently revealed that his former club Arsenal come to his mind ahead of Chelsea.

The Spanish midfielder, who moved to the Stamford Bridge club from Barcelona last summer, has been one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders so far this season and has helped the Blues build a seven-point lead at the top of the table.

Speaking in a new PUMA video with Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco

Verratti, Fabregas was asked: “What comes to mind first when you think of London?”

“My family… Arsenal… Chelsea,” replied the 27-year-old Spain international.

Fabregas scored 35 goals in 212 Premier League appearances for Arsenal during his eight-year spell in north London before his eventual switch back to boyhood club Barcelona in the summer of 2011.

The midfielder has already notched up 11 assists and scored two goals in 22 Premier League games for Jose Mourinho’s men this term.

He also scored twice in the Champions League group stage.

Blues boss Mourinho confirmed on Monday that Fabregas is a doubt for Chelsea’s Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday with a virus.

GIBBS REVEALS NO LANGUAGE BARRIER Kieran Gibbs has spoken about how Steve Bould is using

Gibbs

Arsenal’s Spanish contingent to help get instructions across to new boy Gabriel.

Ensuring nothing gets lost in translation, Bouldie relays his instructions to the Brazilian through Babelfish, Google Translator, and possibly Nacho Monreal.

The former Villarreal man is having English lessons but in the very early stages of his Arsenal career his 18 months in Spain have given him enough to get on with all the Spanish speakers we have in the squad.

“He doesn’t speak any English at the moment,” said the left-back, “and it was the same with Alexis when he came. It won’t take him long. We’ve brushed him up on a few of the sayings for him to get used to.

“In training and stuff in the week, Steve Bould goes through it with him with one of the Spanish boys, who then translates what it means in English so he understands when it is said to him on the pitch.

“That’s what it starts from and to get a good understanding it is important.”

Fabregas

ARSENAL FACE DIFFICULT TRIP TO OLD TRAFFORD Joint record FA Cup winners Manchester United and Arsenal will meet in the quarter-finals of this season’s competition.

United and holders Arsenal, who have both won the Cup 11 times, were paired in the draw made before the kick-off at Deepdale in the first meeting for 43 years between Preston Gundogan

GUNNERS SUFFER GUNDOGAN BLOW Arsenal have been dealt a killer blow in their pursuit of Ilkay Gundogan.

Dortmund are set to open contract talks with their highly-rated 24-yearold midfielder, who has been attracting interest from an array of Europe’s top sides.

Reports in Germany say that the club is confident that he will follow Marco Reus’ example and pledge his long-term future to the club.

Gundogan’s contract talks will come as a rare piece of good news

for the Champions League side who are enduring an extremely difficult season and are hovering just above the Bundesliga drop zone.

The club’s CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke said: “Sporting director, Michael Zorc will certainly look into a potential renewal for Gundogan in the next few weeks.

“I cannot say anything about it at the moment. But I am very happy that Marco Reus has signed a new deal.”

and United, whose last FA Cup final win came in 2004.

On that occasion, United beat Millwall 3-0 at the Millennium Stadium thanks to a goal from Cristiano Ronaldo and a Ruud van Nistelrooy double.

The Red Devils have reached the final twice since, losing to Arsenal on penalties in 2005 after a 0-0 draw and falling to Chelsea in 2007 after Didier Drogba pounced to give the Blues a 1-0 win in extra time.

Meanwhile, Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal is looking forward to an FA Cup quarter-final against Arsenal at Old Trafford after seeing his side come from a goal down to win 3-1 against League One Preston North End at Deepdale.

FA Quarter-final draw Liverpool v Blackburn Rovers Bradford City v Reading Manchester United v Arsenal Aston Villa v West Brom